Architectural Jewels, Bogota

Architectural Jewels (Self Guided), Bogota

Bogota, Colombia, is quite a city for an architectural experience. Attentive to the local historical heritage, the city has managed to preserve in full splendor most of its colonial buildings.

One such gem is the Palace (or House) of Nariño, the official residence of the President of Colombia. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a prominent landmark.

Not far away from it stands the National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmen, a symbol of religious devotion and architectural beauty. Renowned for its architectural fusion of Florentine Gothic, Byzantine, and Arabic styles, this sanctuary is a National Monument.

Further enriching Bogotá's architectural landscape is the Christopher Columbus Theatre (Teatro Cristóbal Colón), named so after the famed explorer.

The Palace of San Carlos, the San Ignacio Church, and the College of San Bartolome are additional architectural marvels, each with its unique story to tell. The Liévano Palace, the National Capitol, and the San Francisco Palace exemplify the city's governmental institutions with their imposing facades and historical significance.

Religious fervor is also represented through structures like the Church of San Francisco, the Third Temple Church (Iglesia de la Tercera), and the Church of True Cross (Iglesia de la Veracruz), each contributing to Bogotá's spiritual tapestry.

Moreover, institutions like the Colombian Language Academy (Academia Colombiana de la Lengua) and Faenza Theatre add intellectual and artistic dimensions to the city's architectural wealth.

Bogotá's architectural jewels offer a glimpse into the city's past and present and invite exploration and appreciation. So, should you wish to discover the splendor of Bogotá's architectural heritage firsthand, venture forth on this self-guided walk.
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Architectural Jewels Map

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Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors
Guide Name: Architectural Jewels
Guide Location: Colombia » Bogota (See other walking tours in Bogota)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 14
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Author: Tom
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
  • Palacio de Nariño (House of Narino)
  • National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmen
  • Teatro Cristóbal Colón (Christopher Columbus Theatre)
  • Palacio de San Carlos (San Carlos Palace)
  • Iglesia de San Ignacio (Church of San Ignacio)
  • Colegio San Bartolome (College of San Bartolome)
  • Palacio Lievano (Lievano Palace)
  • Capitolio Nacional (The National Capitol)
  • Palacio de San Francisco (San Francisco Palace)
  • Iglesia de San Francisco (Church of San Francisco)
  • Iglesia de la Tercera (Third Temple Church)
  • Iglesia de la Veracruz (Vera Cruz Church)
  • Academia Colombiana de la Lengua (Colombian Academy of Language)
  • Teatro Faenza (Faenza Theatre)
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Palacio de Nariño (House of Narino)

1) Palacio de Nariño (House of Narino)

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.
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National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmen

2) National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmen

The National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmen (Santuario Nacional de Nuestra Señora del Carmen) is a landmark of religious, historical, and architectural significance in Bogota. Located in the heart of the La Candelaria neighborhood, the city’s historic center, the sanctuary is easily recognizable for its striking red-and-white striped facade. This unique design extends to its interiors, enhancing the Florentine Gothic style with Byzantine and Moorish influences.

Designed by Italian architect and Salesian priest Giovanni Buscaglione, the sanctuary blends Florentine Gothic style with influences from his travels in Egypt and Turkey. Built between 1926 and 1938 in a Latin cross plan with three naves, it replaced a 17th-century Church of Carmen. After the Carmelite Mothers were expelled in 1881 and the site was used as a military hospital, it was granted to the Salesians in 1890, who transformed it into the present sanctuary.

Buscaglione’s architectural legacy in Colombia includes numerous religious and educational structures, but the National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmen remains his most celebrated work. The church’s distinctive aesthetic reflects a harmonious confluence of styles, with ornate frescoes, intricate mural paintings, and Islamic-inspired details that stand as a testament to his creative genius.

Restoration efforts in 1987, led by Mexican expert Rodolfo Vallin Magana, restored the sanctuary’s interior paintings and murals, which had suffered damage from pollution, candle smoke, and historical events like the Bogotá riots of 1948. Today, the sanctuary's restored beauty continues to captivate visitors and worshippers alike.

Designated a National Monument in 1993, the National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Carmen remains a symbol of the Salesian community’s contributions to Colombian society and an enduring masterpiece of sacred art and architecture.
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Teatro Cristóbal Colón (Christopher Columbus Theatre)

3) Teatro Cristóbal Colón (Christopher Columbus Theatre)

The Christopher Columbus Theatre (Teatro de Cristobal Colon) is a landmark of cultural and historical significance located in Bogota. Serving as the nation's National Theatre, it was designed in the Neoclassical style by Italian architect Pietro Cantini and inaugurated on 12 October 1892 to commemorate the fourth centenary of the discovery of America. The grand opening featured a performance of Verdi's Ernani.

The theatre occupies a space of 2,400 square meters and features a horseshoe-shaped auditorium modeled after Paris's Palais Garnier, albeit at half the size. Its Tuscan Doric façade is crafted from carved stone and segmented by decorative cornices, reflecting the meticulous attention to architectural detail characteristic of the era. Renowned Swiss architect Luigi Ramelli contributed the theatre’s ornate interior decorations and embellishments, creating a space of unparalleled elegance.

The Columbus Theatre was built on the site of the former Ramirez Coliseum and Maldonado Theatre, with construction commencing on 5 October 1885. In recognition of its architectural and cultural importance, the theatre was declared a National Monument on 11 August 1975. It underwent major renovations between 2009 and 2010 to preserve its historical integrity and modernize its facilities.

Throughout its history, the Columbus Theatre has hosted performances by world-class artists and numerous prestigious national and international productions. Its foyer, located on the second level, features exquisite frescoes on the ceiling, as well as richly adorned pilasters, doors, and windows. This space is often used for chamber music concerts, recitals, and performances by smaller ensembles.

In addition to its artistic contributions, the Columbus Theatre played a pivotal role in Colombian history. On 24 November 2016, it was the venue for the signing of the modified peace agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC, marking the end of more than five decades of conflict.

Today, it stands not only as a testament to Colombia's rich cultural heritage but also as a symbol of the country’s resilience and artistic spirit.
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Palacio de San Carlos (San Carlos Palace)

4) Palacio de San Carlos (San Carlos Palace)

The San Carlos Palace, a stunning 16th-century Neoclassical mansion, has witnessed pivotal political, social, and academic events and has housed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since December 1993.

The palace's origins date back to 1585 when Archdeacon Francisco Porras Mejia constructed it in what was then Santa Fe de Bogota, the capital of the New Kingdom of Granada under the Viceroyalty of Peru. Initially a family home, it later became the Jesuit Colegio Seminario de San Bartolomé, founded by Archbishop Bartolomé Lobo Guerrero.

The palace housed Santa Fe's first printing press in 1739 and became the Royal Library and barracks after the Jesuits' expulsion in 1767. It served as Colombia's presidential residence from 1827 to 1908 and again from 1954 to 1980. On September 25, 1828, during the Noche Septembrina, Simon Bolivar narrowly escaped assassination, aided by his mistress Manuela Saenz. A plaque and the escape window commemorate this event.

The San Carlos Palace is built around a central courtyard adorned with Tuscan columns and pointed arches. Its façade preserves the original stone entrance, a balcony with iron railings, and rows of rectangular windows, including the one Bolivar famously used. In 1937, architect Pietro Cantini added a triple-storied eastern section and main entrance, complementing nearby landmarks such as the Christopher Columbus Theatre and the Rafael Pombo birthplace.

Inside, the palace boasts restored interiors and elegant staterooms. Highlights include Bolivar’s bedroom with a 17th-century bed and a bargueño desk, the Bolívar Room for official ceremonies, and the Francisco de Paula Santander Room with Italian damasks and 18th-century Spanish furniture. The Pompeian fresco by Santiago Martínez Delgado at the entrance to the staterooms adds a touch of artistic grandeur.

Declared a National Monument in 1975, the San Carlos Palace has been meticulously restored to host diplomatic events and display historical artifacts, including an 1863 Colombian flag and portraits of notable figures. Its gardens feature a walnut planted by Bolívar and a commemorative palm by President Jose Hilario Lopez, symbolizing Colombia's rich history and cultural heritage.
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Iglesia de San Ignacio (Church of San Ignacio)

5) Iglesia de San Ignacio (Church of San Ignacio)

The Church of San Ignacio is a remarkable Catholic temple dedicated to San Ignacio de Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus. Nestled in the historic La Candelaria neighborhood of Bogota, it sits between Calle 10 and Carrera Sexta and Séptima, flanked by the Colegio Mayor de San Bartolomé and the Museum of Colonial Art. This iconic structure is administered by the Society of Jesus.

Construction of the church began in 1610 under the guidance of Juan Bautista Coluccini, an Italian Jesuit priest and architect. The church was consecrated in 1635, although the construction was completed only in 1691. During its early years, the church played a vital role in the city's religious and civic life. After an earthquake in 1763 destroyed the dome, its reconstruction stretched over several years.

The church underwent a significant transformation during the Jesuit expulsion (1767–1891) when it was renamed San Carlos to honor King Carlos III. During this period, it also served as a vice-cathedral due to its proximity to the main square, a role it held until the completion of the current Primate Cathedral.

Father Coluccini's design for San Ignacio drew inspiration from the Church of the Gesù in Rome, the mother church of the Jesuit order. The structure features a Renaissance-style layout, similar to the Basilica of Saint Andrew in Mantua, with a large central nave, side chapels, a continuous balcony, a transept, and a dome. The façade is adorned with three arched openings, symbolizing the three naves within. The church is located opposite Rufino Cuervo Square, contributing to an architectural ensemble in Bogotá's colonial heart.

After years of neglect, restoration led by architect Ernesto Moure and the Carlos Arbeláez Camacho Institute restored the Church of San Ignacio to its former splendor. Now a beautifully preserved landmark, it highlights Bogotá's colonial heritage and Jesuit influence, attracting visitors with its historical and architectural significance.
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Colegio San Bartolome (College of San Bartolome)

6) Colegio San Bartolome (College of San Bartolome)

The College of San Bartolome (Colegio Mayor de San Bartolome), located in the Santa Fe district of Bogota, is a private Catholic institution with a rich legacy as Colombia's oldest educational establishment. Founded on September 27, 1604, by Archbishop Bartolome Lobo Guerrero and the first Jesuits in the New Kingdom of Granada, the school has operated continuously for over four centuries, making it a cornerstone of education and history in Latin America.

The school is housed in a colonial Plateresque-style building designed by Jesuit priest and architect Juan Bautista Coluccini. It is located diagonally opposite the southeast corner of the Plaza de Bolívar, amidst significant landmarks such as the National Capitol, the Primate Cathedral, the Lievano Palace, and the Palace of Justice. Declared a National Monument of Colombia in 1975, the building is part of the Jesuit Block, alongside the Church of Saint Ignatius and the Museum of Colonial Art. These structures have been carefully restored by the Society of Jesus and the Colombian Ministry of Culture.

The College of San Bartolome has been key to Colombia’s cultural and political history. Its students and alumni shaped the independence movement and the nation, including 28 presidents. It also contributed to founding major institutions like the Pontifical Xaverian University (1623) and the Central University of the Republic (1826), the precursor to the National University of Colombia.

The College of San Bartolome, serving around 1,500 students, is renowned for academic excellence, fostering leadership, and upholding Jesuit traditions of intellectual growth and moral values. As a Cultural and District Asset, it remains a symbol of Colombia's educational heritage and Jesuit influence on the nation's identity and leadership.
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Palacio Lievano (Lievano Palace)

7) Palacio Lievano (Lievano Palace)

The Lievano Palace (Palacio Lievano) stands prominently on the west side of the Plaza de Bolivar in Bogota. Situated in the historic and cultural heart of the city, the La Candelaria district, the palace is surrounded by cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks like the Palacio de Justicia, the Casa de Narino, libraries, and museums. Since 1974, this remarkable structure has served as Bogota's city hall.

The Lievano Palace site has a storied past, originally hosting administrative buildings and the residences of Sanz de Santamaria and the Viceroys until 1810. Damaged by earthquakes in 1827–28, it was rebuilt as the Galerias Arrubla in 1848, Bogota’s largest building at the time, combining business and municipal functions. After a fire in 1900, Indalecio Lievano commissioned French architect Gaston Lelarge to design a Neoclassical replacement, completed in 1907 under Ricardo Lieras Codazzi. Acquired by the city in 1960, it became Bogota's city hall in 1974, retaining its arcaded façade while adapting the interior for its new purpose.

The Lievano Palace is a three-story rectangular structure with Mansard roofs and a Neoclassical façade featuring 32 windowed bays per floor, adorned with balconies, columns, and intricate ironwork. The ground floor includes a columned portico, while the interior features a southern patio with a bust of independence hero Jose Acevedo y Gomez. The mayor's office occupies the first floor, and the opulent second floor houses the Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada Room, a high-ceilinged space used for key decisions. To mark Bogota's 450th anniversary, 24 plaques were added to the walls, celebrating the city's history.

The Lievano Palace remains a symbol of Bogota’s administrative, cultural, and historical legacy. Its grandeur, historical significance, and central location make it an essential landmark in the city’s vibrant La Candelaria district.
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Capitolio Nacional (The National Capitol)

8) Capitolio Nacional (The National Capitol)

The National Capitol of Colombia (Capitolio Nacional de Colombia) in Bogota's historic center, is a monumental example of Neoclassical architecture and one of the country's most important political and cultural landmarks. Serving as the seat of the Congress of the Republic, it houses both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Construction of the National Capitol began in 1848 under the direction of Danish architect Thomas Reed, commissioned by President Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera. The project spanned nearly eight decades, finally reaching completion in 1926 after contributions from multiple architects. Built entirely of stone, its design is marked by a colonnaded façade reminiscent of ancient Greek architecture, embodying the principles of neoclassical style. The structure's architectural significance led to its designation as a National Monument in 1975.

The National Capitol is home to significant Colombian artworks, including murals by renowned artists. In 1938, Ignacio Gomez Jaramillo created two murals within the building. Later, in 1947, for the Inter-American Conference, Santiago Martinez Delgado painted a grand fresco in the Elliptic Chamber. This masterpiece depicts Simón Bolívar and Francisco de Paula Santander exiting the Cucuta Congress during the creation of Gran Colombia. The fresco is considered the most important of its kind in Colombia and a hallmark of Martinez Delgado's career.

The National Capitol is open to the public for guided tours, providing visitors with insights into its history, architecture, and role in Colombia's political processes. Highlights of the tours include the Elliptic Chamber, historical murals, and the statue of Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera in the north courtyard.

Commanding the south side of Bolivar Square, the National Capitol is a symbol of Colombian democracy and a striking addition to Bogotá's urban landscape.
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Palacio de San Francisco (San Francisco Palace)

9) Palacio de San Francisco (San Francisco Palace)

The San Francisco Palace is a striking example of Republican architecture, popular in Bogota in the early 20th century. Located in the Santa Fe district, this neoclassical building was designed by French architect Gaston Lelarge, whose notable works also include the Echeverry Palace and the Liévano Building. Constructed between 1918 and 1933, the palace replaced the 17th-century convent of the Purification of Our Lady, which originally stood on the site alongside the San Francisco Church.

The palace's history reflects significant changes. Originally a 17th-century Franciscan convent with courtyards and an orchard, it suffered damage over time, including a 1785 earthquake. In the mid-19th century, General Tomas Cipriano de Mosquera's property confiscation decree transferred the land to the state. By the early 20th century, Governor Rafael Escallón Miranda commissioned the palace's construction, with Gastón Lelarge designing it and Arturo Jaramillo later modifying the plans.

The interior decoration, featuring works by prominent Colombian artists such as Ricardo Gomez Campuzano, Francisco Antonio Cano, and Gustavo Arcila Uribe, adds to the palace's cultural significance. Originally the headquarters of the Government of Cundinamarca, it also hosted the Departmental Assembly, preserving important bibliographic records.

The palace faced challenges, including damage during the 1948 Bogotazo riots, requiring reconstruction. Declared a National Monument in 1984, it was loaned to Universidad del Rosario in 1997 before returning to the Government of Cundinamarca in 2011. After rehabilitation, it reopened in 2012, restored to its former grandeur.
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Iglesia de San Francisco (Church of San Francisco)

10) Iglesia de San Francisco (Church of San Francisco)

The Church of San Francisco is the oldest preserved Catholic temple in Bogota and a landmark of historical and architectural significance. Dedicated to San Francisco de Asis, it is situated in the Veracruz neighborhood, forming part of a religious complex that includes the Church of La Tercera and the Church of Veracruz.

The church’s origins date back to 1557–1566, when it was constructed on land donated by Archbishop Juan de los Barrios to the Franciscan brothers. Initially located along the Vicacha River, later renamed the San Francisco River, the structure was expanded between 1586 and 1611. The highlight of this early phase was the construction of the main altarpiece in 1623, a masterpiece of Renaissance and Mudejar craftsmanship.

Throughout its history, the church has endured significant challenges, including severe damage from the 1785 earthquake. Restoration efforts led by Domingo Esquiaqui integrated previously separate chapels into a second nave, completed in 1794. The church’s tower was also rebuilt during this period. Further interior enhancements were made by Capuchin friar Domingo de Petrés.

In 1861, the church was expropriated under Tomas Cipriano de Mosquera but resumed religious use in 1881. Its adjacent Franciscan convent, spanning two blocks with three cloisters, was demolished in 1917 for the Cundinamarca Government building, now San Francisco Palace. While the exterior and roof were altered, the façade, tower, and chancel remain intact, with a major restoration completed in 1988–1990 to preserve its legacy.

The Church of San Francisco is renowned for its Mudejar-style ceiling, considered one of the finest examples of the former Viceroyalty of New Granada. Its altarpiece, a blend of Renaissance and grotesque elements, is a standout feature. The altarpiece’s intricate design includes saints with their attributes, apostles, and at its pinnacle, an image of the Eternal Father holding the world and blessing the Franciscans.

Today, this historic church stands as a testament to Bogota’s colonial heritage and religious tradition, located diagonally across from the Museo del Oro TransMilenio station.
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Iglesia de la Tercera (Third Temple Church)

11) Iglesia de la Tercera (Third Temple Church)

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.
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Iglesia de la Veracruz (Vera Cruz Church)

12) Iglesia de la Veracruz (Vera Cruz Church)

The Vera Cruz Church in Bogota is a monument steeped in history and symbolism. Established in 1546, just eight years after the founding of Bogota, it holds the distinction of being one of the first churches built by the Spanish conquistadors in Santa Fe. Initially a modest chapel situated on the road to Tunja, across the Viracocha River, it predated many of the city’s notable religious and stone structures, such as the churches of San Francisco and La Tercera.

In 1631, the Brotherhood of Santa Veracruz, formed by Bogotá’s early merchants, expanded the chapel into the current temple. They assisted condemned prisoners, provided Christian burials, and organized Holy Week processions. Notably, on July 23, 1597, the church hosted the ceremonial transfer of Bogota’s founder Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada’s remains to the Cathedral.

Despite its relatively modest architecture and lesser historical renown, Vera Cruz Church is deeply tied to Colombia’s fight for independence. Following the bloody repression led by Pablo Morillo and Juan Samano in 1816, it became the burial site for many patriots executed during this dark period. Their remains now rest within the church, earning it the title of a National Pantheon.

The church is also home to three significant Christ figures, each bearing immense historical and spiritual value. One is an ivory effigy of Christ with an ebony cross, once held by Saint Francis de Borja at the time of his death, later gifted to the church in 1622. Another is a wooden cross with a painted effigy of Jesus, previously displayed in the chapel for those condemned to death. The third is a wooden sculpture of Christ that accompanied prisoners to their execution.

Adding to its mystique, local legend speaks of a hidden treasure: a golden deer filled with the riches of Zipa, buried in the hills overlooking Bogota. Tradition claims this treasure lies near Vera Cruz Church, tempting treasure hunters to this day.

Though it may lack architectural grandeur, Vera Cruz Church remains a powerful symbol of faith, sacrifice, and resilience, echoing Colombia’s turbulent and heroic past.
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Academia Colombiana de la Lengua (Colombian Academy of Language)

13) Academia Colombiana de la Lengua (Colombian Academy of Language)

The Colombian Academy of Language (Academia Colombiana de la Lengua, ACL) is a prestigious institution dedicated to the study and preservation of the Spanish language, the promotion of Colombian literature, and providing guidance on linguistic matters in Colombia. Established on May 10, 1871, it holds the distinction of being the oldest of the twenty-three corresponding academies of the Royal Spanish Academy and the first Academy of Language in the Americas. Its founding was spearheaded by Jose Maria Vergara, supported by notable philologists and writers, including Rufino Jose Cuervo and Miguel Antonio Caro.

Approved by the Royal Spanish Academy in 1871, the Academy initially met in private homes, earning Miguel Antonio Caro's description as a "dispersed council." Its first headquarters, Caro's former home built between 1916 and 1918 by Carlos Camargo Quiñones with Pietro Cantini's support, was later demolished to make way for Calle 19 Avenue.

Since the late 1950s, the Academy’s headquarters has been a Neoclassical-style building on Carrera Street, designed by Spanish architect Alfredo Rodríguez Ordaz. The structure was inaugurated in 1960 during the Third Congress of Academies, where the Bogota Convention was presented and signed. The Academy became the official advisor to the Colombian government on language matters that same year.

As a member of the Association of Academies of the Spanish Language, the Colombian Academy of Language continues to uphold its mission of fostering linguistic and literary excellence. Its headquarters, with its rich Neoclassical design, serves as a hub for intellectual and cultural discourse, maintaining the Academy’s pivotal role in the development of the Spanish language and Colombian literature.
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Teatro Faenza (Faenza Theatre)

14) Teatro Faenza (Faenza Theatre)

The Faenza Theatre (Teatro Faenza) is a landmark of Bogota, not only as the city’s oldest movie theater but also as a testament to the evolution of cultural spaces in Colombia. Originally built on the site of a ceramics factory, from which it takes its name, the theatre opened its doors on April 3, 1924, premiering with a French film, The Irony of Destiny by Dimitri Kirsanoff. Over time, it became a hub for entertainment, hosting operettas, zarzuelas, and film screenings that catered to Bogota’s elite.

Architecturally, the Faenza Theatre is one of the few non-religious buildings in Colombia to feature grotesque paintings. Its Art Nouveau style is highlighted by intricate plaster moldings, elaborate relief decorations, and handcrafted lamps that exemplify traditional artisanal techniques. This artistic significance contributed to its designation as a National Monument of Colombia in 1975.

However, like many historic landmarks, the Faenza Theatre endured periods of decline. By the 1970s, the once-glamorous venue had turned into a seedy cinema known for screening adult films, and disturbing rumors of "snuff cinema" added to its notoriety. Fortunately, the theatre was rescued from decay, and between 2004 and 2007, Central University led a full-scale restoration. Today, the Faenza Theatre stands renewed, once again serving as a vital space for Bogota’s artistic and cultural scene.

From its origins in ceramics to its cinematic legacy, the Faenza Theatre embodies Bogota’s architectural resilience and cultural evolution, making it one of the most fascinating venues in the city’s historic core.

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