The city of Bogotá is a true mix of architectural styles and landmarks that range across the pre-Colombian, colonial and modern-day periods. The massive growth of the city has resulted in developers finding creative ways to expand. The resulting developments are seen by chaotic by some but serve a purpose and work well within what is South America’s third-largest city. Many of Bogotá’s key landmarks and historical buildings are centered around La Candelaria. Many of the buildings in this area were developed in a colonial style and include many colorfully painted facades. The uniqueness of the neighborhood includes long and narrow streets which offer views of the more modern city structures in the distance, giving a unique photographic opportunity to focus on both colonial and modern developments.
Many of Bogotá’s modern-day structures include office towers and buildings that were developed to serve a rapidly growing metropolis. Some of these include the Attorney General’s Office or the BD Bacatá Building, considered the highest skyscraper in Bogotá. The latter has the unique distinction of being the world’s first crowdfunded skyscraper; however, has not been able to open due to difficulties securing finances.
Religious structures and monuments are also a major feature of Bogotá development. Being a Catholic country, there is no shortage of religious design and architecture available for visitors to see. Some of the more prominent structures include the Catedral Primada and the Basílica del Señor de Monserrate. The Church of San Francisco (Iglesia de San Francisco) is another highlight of Colombian development. Built in the mid 1550s, the church has been reconstructed over the centuries because of damage sustained by earthquakes. It is the oldest church in Bogotá and was built in a neoclassical style. Highlights include the altarpiece complete with Renaissance elements.
Landmarks of Interest
Museo Santa Clara
Address: Carrera 8 No. 8–91, La Candelaria, Bogota, 111711
Phone: +57-13376762
Operating Hours:
Monday closed
Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday 9:00am – 4:00pm
Sunday 9:00am – 4:00pm
Holiday closed
Admission Cost: COP $3.000
Website
Iglesia de San Francisco
Address: Av Jimenez de Quesada #7-10, Bogotá
Phone: +57-13376762
Operating Hours:
Monday 7:00am – 7:00pm
Tuesday 7:00am – 7:00pm
Wednesday 7:00am – 7:00pm
Thursday 7:00am – 7:00pm
Friday 7:00am – 7:00pm
Saturday 7:00am – 2:00pm; 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Sunday 7:00am – 2:00pm; 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Admission Cost: FREE
Website
Capitolio Nacional
Address: Carrera 7, Cl. 10, Bogotá, Colombia
Phone: +57-13376762
Operating Hours:
Monday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday closed
Sunday closed
Admission Cost: FREE
Website