On August 6, 1538, the missionary Friar Domingo de las Casas offered the first mass to the conquistadors. Services were held in a humble chapel of mud and straw. The place of worship was called Our Lady of Hope. A banner used on that day can be seen in the place where the first stones were laid for the construction of the Primate Cathedral of Colombia in Bolivar Square in Bogota.

The Primate Cathedral is made up of a Classical basilica plan in the form of a Latin Cross that occupies an area of 5,300 square meters. It has five naves; a central nave, two side naves, and two others for the chapels. There are 12 chapels, six on each side nave. The lantern and dome are over the transept. The dome is supported by four indigo-blue pendentives decorated with tongues of flame.

The front of the Cathedral has a lower part of eight Corinthian pilasters high as the architrave, frieze, and cornice. There are eight Ionic pilasters in the second part. There are three doors with sculptures. Saint Peter is on one door, Saint Paul on the other, and the Immaculate Conception with two angels is on the center door.

The facade is finished with a marble slab on the lintel of the main entrance, bearing the name of Friar Domingo de Petres, Capuchin. There are two towers, each 171 feet high. The towers are made in three sections with four sides. There are bells in the middle sections. The north tower has a clock.

The House of Narino, also known as the Casa de Narino, serves as the official residence and principal workplace of the President of Colombia. Located in Bogota, it houses the executive branch of the government. The building, steeped in history and architectural elegance, was inaugurated in 1908 on the site where Antonio Narino, a national hero of Colombian independence, was born.

The original house, built in 1754 and owned by Vicente Narino, remained with the Narino family until it changed hands multiple times. Recognizing its historical significance, President Rafael Nunez purchased the property in 1885 with the intention of converting it into a presidential palace. Over the years, the structure served various purposes, including hosting the War Ministry, the National Archives, and the National University's mathematics faculty.

Architects Gaston Lelarge and Julian Lombana redesigned the building in 1906, enhancing its façade with carved stone, expanding its dimensions, and introducing wide halls and new levels. The Swiss sculptor Luigi Ramelli contributed to its intricate ornamentation, and subsequent additions included a third level, a terrace roof, and a heliport during the administration of Eduardo Santos.

The House of Narino seamlessly combines neoclassical and French influences, reflecting the expertise of its designers. Inside, it showcases a collection of art and furnishings spanning various historical periods. The Parade Ground (Plaza de Armas), located on its northern side, is a ceremonial space where foreign dignitaries are received. Notable sculptures in the plaza include a replica of the pre-Columbian "El Dios de la muerte" and “Vigilantes”, a striking aluminum piece by Edgar Negret.

On the plaza's west side stands the National Observatory, built between 1802 and 1803 by Domingo de Petres. This historic structure, the oldest observatory in the Americas, played a pivotal role in the independence movement as the meeting place for revolutionary leaders.

A daily highlight is the Changing of the Guard ceremony performed by the 37th Infantry Battalion on the Plaza de Armas. This spectacle attracts visitors, reinforcing the symbolic and cultural importance of the site.

Tucked away in the heart of Bogota, Pasaje Rivas Market is a hidden gem with over 120 years of history. Unlike traditional shopping centers, this market is a maze of narrow passageways and crooked corridors, packed with an eclectic mix of handcrafted goods. From colorful hammocks and traditional ruanas (woolen ponchos) to handmade furniture, leather clothing, bamboo crafts, and pottery, Pasaje Rivas offers an authentic slice of Bogotá’s artisanal culture—all at surprisingly low prices.

What sets this market apart is its raw authenticity. Unlike Bogota’s more touristy spots, Pasaje Rivas remains a local favorite, where bargaining is not just accepted but expected. The market exudes a timeworn charm, its worn floors and historic storefronts telling the story of generations of artisans who have worked here.

Located mid-block at Carrera 10 and Calle 10, Pasaje Rivas is the perfect place for visitors looking to take home handmade Colombian souvenirs while experiencing a side of the city that feels untouched by modern commercialism. Though not widely advertised as a must-see attraction, for those who value authenticity over polish, Pasaje Rivas is an unmissable stop in Bogotá.

In 1537, Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, a Spanish explorer and conqueror in northern South America, defeated Tisquesusa, the fourth and last independent ruler of the southern Muisca Federation. In 1538 Gonzalo Jimenez founded the City of Bogota, the capital of the New Kingdom of Granada, currently known as Colombia. A year after the foundation of the Colombian capital, the Spaniards built their first cathedral on a corner of the main square of Bogota, known today as Bolivar Square.

Bolivar Square was the civic center of Old Bogota. Circuses, cultural and religious events, and bullfights were popular manifestations here. The Royal Appellate Court, a Jesuit school, the Holy Chapel, and the Viceroyalty Palace were built during the colonial period. The Primary Cathedral was built in 1823 by friar architect Domingo de Petres.

The Bolivar Square hosts an imposing statue of Simon Bolivar, a Venezuelan soldier, and statesman who played a central role in the South American independence movement. The statue was sculpted by Italian artist Pietro Tenerani in 1846 and was the first public monument in the city. The square is bordered by Street 10 in the south and Steet 11 in the north. The Avenue 7 and 8 are on the east and west sides respectively.

Nowadays, the square is surrounded by historical buildings such as the Palace of Justice with the Supreme Court; the National Capitol, the seat of Congress; the Lievano Palace, the seat of the mayor; the Vase House also known as the Museum of the 20th July, site of the Call for Independence in 1810.

Bolivar Square is the main tourist attraction in Bogota and the site for various manifestations and protests. Bolívar Square is declared a national monument in October 1995.

The name of the restaurant La Puerta Falsa is translated as the false door. Locals began to call the increasingly popular eatery “the place near the false door,” referring to a false door set into the side of the Primate Cathedral, situated across the snack shop. Eventually, it simply became La Puerta Falsa. The history of False Door Restaurant started with a fight. Two hundred years ago, a priest, Friar Juan Bautista, was organizing the July festival of the Virgin of Carmen. It was an honor to be chosen to help. The priest failed to invite the help of the wrong woman.

The woman's name is lost. She is known today only as La Chozna, which means great-great-great-granddaughter. Insulted by the priest's oversight, she had her husband buy a property near the cathedral. She moved in and opened an eating place for the festival workers, drawing them away from Friar Bautista's long boring sermons.

Today, False Door Restaurant is still operated by the descendants of La Chozna. The restaurant is a tight little two-story space that can barely seat twenty diners at once. The narrow street door requires patrons to enter in single file. The ground floor is always crowded. There is tight seating on a balcony at the back.

The restaurant, located near the Primate Cathedral on Street 11, number 6-50, serves "a taste of grandmother's kitchen." For breakfast, a "tamale", spiced rice, and chicken in a banana leaf. The hot chocolate, "Santafereno", with bread and dipping cheese should not be overlooked. Lunch may be ajiaco stew, also with bread, dipping cheese, and two eggs. The tamales are legendary. This tiny restaurant has been serving traditional tamales for more than 200 years.

La Candelaria is the historic heart of Bogota and its 17th locality. Serving as the city's Old City, it features a captivating blend of Spanish Colonial, Baroque, and Art Deco architectural styles. This neighborhood in downtown Bogotá is not only a key tourist destination but also an educational and cultural hub, home to numerous universities, libraries, and museums.

Comprising neighborhoods such as La Catedral, La Concordia, Las Aguas, Egipto, and Nueva Santa Fe, La Candelaria encapsulates Bogota's origins. The city was founded here on August 6, 1538, by Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, on the site of the Muisca ruler Zipa's resting place, known today as Chorro de Quevedo. The locality’s name comes from the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, a colonial-era landmark.

At the heart of La Candelaria lies Plaza de Bolivar, the city's historic main square and the site of Bogota's formal foundation. Around the square are some of Colombia’s most significant buildings, including the Capitolio Nacional (Congress of Colombia), the Palace of Justice (Supreme Court of Justice), the Palacio Lievano (Mayor's Office of Bogota), and the Primatial Cathedral of Bogota. Religious landmarks like the Chapel del Sagrario and the Archbishop's Palace further add to the square's cultural and historic prominence.

La Candelaria also houses important national government institutions. The Casa de Narino, the official residence and office of the President of Colombia, and the Palacio de San Carlos, home to the Ministry of International Relations, are situated here, solidifying the neighborhood's role as a center of political power.

Today, La Candelaria remains a vibrant area where Bogota's history, politics, and culture intersect, drawing visitors to explore its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and dynamic public spaces.

The Third Temple Church, also known as the Church of the Stigmata, is a remarkable Catholic religious site in the Santa Fe neighborhood of Bogota. Situated at the intersection of Carrera Septima and Calle Dieciseis, in the historic Calle del Arco, it is part of a larger complex that includes the Church of Veracruz and the Church of San Francisco.

Constructed between 1761 and 1780, the church was designed by Isidro Díaz de Acuna and Esteban Lozano for the Third Secular Order or Order of Penance, which adheres to the principles of Saint Francis of Assisi. Originally, the church was accompanied by a cloister, connected to the Church of San Francisco by a bridge. The cloister and the bridge were eventually demolished in the late 19th century, in 1890 and 1876, respectively.

The church features a single nave and a chapel set perpendicular to the presbyter. It is distinguished by its wooden vaulted ceiling adorned with geometric patterns, reflecting the influence of the Mannerist architect Sebastiano Serlio. The overall design showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of the 18th century.

One of the church’s most striking features is its intricate woodwork, masterfully carved by Pedro Caballero, a prominent artisan of the period. This Rococo-style decoration is considered one of the finest examples in New Granada.

The altarpieces, crowned with semicircular arches, are supported by twisted Solomonic columns and decorated with rockery inlays, reliefs of heads, and plant motifs. Notably, the decoration extends to the galleries, confessionals, alfarjes (ornamental wooden ceilings), and pulpit. Unlike many churches of its time, the Third Temple Church does not feature gilded paint, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to stand out.

The Third Temple Church is a testament to Bogota’s colonial-era craftsmanship and religious devotion. Its connection to the Franciscan tradition, unique architectural elements, and exquisite Rococo wood carvings make it a cherished landmark in Colombia’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

Since 1934 the Bank of Republic has played an active role in the protection of the archeological treasures of Colombia. The first object of art in the collection supported by the bank was the poporo quimbaya.

The poporo is a utensil used by the indigenous people to store bits of lime derived from seashells. The lime was chewed with coca leaves, as a sacred ritual of the first people. The poporos are credited with spiritual power and social status. The poporo quimbaya has become famous and is now an important part of Colombian cultural identity.

The museum houses the Muisca Golden Raft. Found in Pasca in 1969, the raft was used in the coronation of a new Ruler of the Muisca federation. As of 2008, after renovation, the museum had organized five rooms for golden objects and an auditorium. There is also a cafe, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop.

The museum currently has about 55,000 pieces with nearly 6,000 on display. Many of these items were used in the daily life or sacred rituals of indigenous peoples like the Muisca and Tayrona. On the first floor are the main reception hall, the shop, and the restaurant. The exhibitions are on the second and third floors. The second floor is titled "People and Gold in pre-Hispanic Colombia." The halls are dedicated to different cultures and civilizations, such as Calima, Quimbaya, Muisca, Zenu, Tierrandentro, San Agustin, Tolima, Tairona, and Uraba. There is one room called "After Columbus."

The third-floor exposition takes off in a different direction. Shamanism is represented by the "Flying Shamanic" and "the Offering." In the Profunditation Room, at the end of the exhibit, are shown videos about the most important pieces on display. Almost all the exhibits are in English and Spanish.

In 1538, Conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada founded Bogota. It was here at Quevedo's Fountain Square where the ruler of the Muisca people would take in the view of the vast Bogota savanna. In 1832, the Augustinian priest, Father Quevedo, bought the site and built a fountain. The current fountain replaced the original, destroyed in 1896.

In the fountain square, there is a plain white chapel. It is called the Hermitage of San Miguel del Principe. It replaced the very first chapel of Bogota. The church steps have figures by artist Javier Olave in tribute to the local "lunatics," who were casualties of the era of violence.

The square is cobbled. It is much smaller than Bolivar Square and has a distinctly different and bohemian atmosphere. It is always filled with performers, students, and visitors. Narrow alleyways lead off the square. "Chicha," an alcoholic beverage of the ancient Muiscasis, is served here. Street art is everywhere.

The Bottleneck Alley is named for its shape. It tapers inwardly as one moves along. The lane is cobbled, and the walls close in with overwhelming wall paintings and prize-winning graffiti. There is a high concentration of pre-Colombian style art. The murals often reflect resistance to the right-wing establishments of the Church and State.

Besides the vibrant street art, there are also small restaurants and cafes. From Quevedo's Fountain Square head down the alleyway on the right, facing the church of the Hermitage of San Miguel. The Casa Galeria (Gallery House) offers a variety of cakes and great coffee. Gallery House is also a hotel. It has an attractive courtyard and an ideal rest stop.

Special tours are available for La Candelaria, including Embudo Street's incredible street art and visits to alternative shops, bars, and vintage stores. If all la Candelaria were like this, the effect would be magical.

Artesanías de Colombia is the country's most popular and widely promoted craft brand. In Bogota, it has three stores, with the main one located next to Iglesia de las Aguas. The brand offers a carefully curated collection of high-quality national crafts, ensuring you won’t find mass-produced or kitschy items. Its diverse range includes traditional garments, modern clothing with an ethnic touch, pottery, baskets, woodwork, bags, belts, hats, jewelry, embroidery, and more. Artesanías de Colombia is also expanding internationally.

What to buy here: Chamba pottery & Mochilas.

Chamba, a black clay pottery from a village in Tolima, is simple, rustic, and elegant. It has even caught the attention of stores like Crate and Barrel, bringing Colombian rustic chic to stylish dinner tables worldwide. You can go all out with plates, charming tinto cups, saucers, and serving dishes—or just pick up a few soup bowls. If you're in Bogota in December, Expoartesanías at Corferias is the perfect place to meet the artisans behind Chamba pottery. While souvenir shops sell Chamba ware, for top-quality pieces, Artesanías de Colombia is the best choice, though at a higher price. Incidentally, this brand also organizes Expoartesanías. Since Chamba pottery is made of clay, it's quite fragile—so pack it carefully!

Mochilas are handwoven cotton or wool handbags, often featuring vibrant designs. The finest are crafted by the Wayuu people, known for their durability and tight weaving—some even claim they can hold water. In Bogota, it's common to see students, hipsters, and even professionals in suits carrying a mochila over their shoulder. Like other handicrafts, mochilas range in price, with the highest-quality, most original pieces costing upwards of $150. For the best selection, visit an Artesanías de Colombia store or the Expoartesanías fair in December, when indigenous artisans gather in Bogota to sell their exceptional work. Many come from the Caribbean coast and can explain the meanings behind the geometric patterns on the mochilas—you might even meet the weaver of your bag. While cheaper versions are available in tourist markets downtown, investing in quality at Artesanías de Colombia is the better choice.

The Monserrate Cable Car (Teleferico de Monserrate) and Funicular are two of Bogotá’s most iconic transport systems, providing access to the Monserrate Hill (Cerro de Monserrate), home to the Basilica of the Lord of Monserrate. Both modes of transport offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city while catering to thousands of visitors, from pilgrims to tourists seeking a scenic ascent.

Designed by the Swiss company Von Roll, the cable car system was inaugurated on September 27, 1955, to accommodate the increasing number of visitors making their way to the hilltop sanctuary. Covering an 880-meter distance and 460 meters in elevation, it carries passengers from Bogota (2,692 meters above sea level) up to Monserrate (3,152 meters) in around 4 minutes. The system operates on a bi-cable mode, with two cabins, each with a 40-passenger capacity.

The cable car's color scheme has changed over the years, from white to yellow, then red and green, and now orange, reflecting the sunset views from Monserrate. Despite a minor incident in 2018, the system remains one of the safest in the region, with modernized monitoring and security systems. The cables are replaced every 35 to 70 years to ensure continued safety.

Predating the cable car, the funicular has been in service since 1929, making it the older and faster of the two options, completing the ascent in just 4 minutes. It passes through two bridges and a tunnel before reaching the summit. While the funicular lacks the panoramic visibility of the cable car, it remains a popular choice for visitors looking for a quick and efficient ride.

Both the cable car and funicular offer distinct experiences—the cable car highlights Bogotá’s skyline, while the funicular provides a more enclosed yet swift journey. Whether for religious devotion, historical appreciation, or simply spectacular views, the ascent to Monserrate Hill remains a must-do in Bogota.

The Sanctuary of Monserrate in the hills of Bogota is visible from any point in the city below. It is more than 10,000 feet above sea level at the peak of Cerro de las Nieves ("Peak of Snows"). Often covered by mountain mists, the sanctuary may be reached by a steep two-mile path. For the less hardy, there are a funicular and a cable car.

The shrine of Our Lady of Monserrate has been a goal of religious pilgrims since 1620. The shrine holds the image of the Fallen Lord of Monserrate. It is a miraculous figure. It has been claimed that the statue grows heavy if anyone tries to take it down to the city. It was made in 1640 by artist Pedro de Lugo Albarracin.

The main attraction at the top is the Basilica Sanctuary of Monserrate. The basilica is filled with sculptures dating from the colonial period. Behind the sanctuary is a large square featuring handicrafts and souvenirs. There are restaurants for hungry climbers. Bogota treats include hot chocolate, tamales, soups, and coffees.

On top of Monserrate are the lush gardens and flower displays surrounding the Well of Wishes. One coin is good for one wish. All wishes are secret. There are stunning views of Bogota and the Guadeloupe Hill. The sunsets are memorable, and the views of the city at night are spectacular.

The Monserrate funicular operates Monday to Friday from 6:30 am to 11:45 am. On Saturdays, it runs until 4:30 pm. Senior citizens get a discount rate, but one must have an identity card. The Cable car is open from Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 11:30 pm. On Sundays, cars are available from 10 am to 4:30 pm.

The Monserrate Market, tucked behind the iconic church atop Monserrate Hill, is a lively cultural hub that perfectly blends traditional Colombian charm with tourist-friendly offerings. Accessible through a welcoming white archway, the market stretches along a narrow street lined with dozens of colorful stalls.

Here, visitors can explore a variety of handmade goods such as jewelry, traditional garments, woven bags, and classic Colombian sombreros. For food enthusiasts, the market offers a delicious array of local treats, including chocolate-covered coffee beans, hot chocolate, and the ever-popular fried cheese pastries. Each stall is a showcase of Colombian flavors and craftsmanship, making it an ideal spot for both culinary adventures and souvenir hunting.

The Monserrate Market’s vibrant atmosphere is a delightful mix of touristy charm and authentic Colombian culture. Whether you’re looking to savor traditional dishes, discover unique artisanal products, or simply enjoy the buzz of a lively marketplace, this destination provides a memorable experience. Its proximity to Monserrate Hill also makes it the perfect complement to a day of sightseeing and breathtaking views of Bogota.