Caracas – Architecture & Landmarks

Caracas is home to some of South America’s greatest cultural and historical landmarks. Much of the city’s oldest structures were developed in various styles including Bauhaus, Brutalist, and Art Deco. The city was, at its prime, the center of modern architecture in South America. It remains home to some of the most remarkable modern architecture in the region; however, due to recent economic hardships, a significant portion remains in disrepair. Visitors will still be able to explore some of the city’s grandest icons, such as the University of Caracas. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the campus greatly influenced the development of other Venezuelan architecture. Specifically highlighted is the Olympic Stadium, complete with a football pitch and full-size running track.

Colonial-style architecture is alive and well in nearby El Hatillo. Located only a few kilometers from the Caracas city center, it includes many colonial structures, including an 18th-century church as well as a Roman Orthodox Church. The city is famed for tourism and is a recommended site for visitors looking to see unique colonial architecture, much of which has been destroyed or abandoned in Caracas. Founded in 1784, the municipality is also home to many art centers and some of Venezuela’s largest Christmas, Easter and New Year’s celebrations.

Another unique landmark in Caracas is the National Pantheon of Venezuela. Built in the 1870s, it is the final resting location for many of the country’s national heroes. The site includes various monuments and cenotaphs, as well as works of art spread throughout. One of the largest sections is dedicated to Simón Bolívar, including many paintings that depict the leader’s life. The monument was closed in 2010 for a three-year extensive renovation and restoration and is a significant historical landmark for the Venezuelan people.

 

 

Landmarks of Interest

 National Pantheon

Address: Calle 9 de Febrero, Caracas, 1010
Phone: +58 212 862 1518
Operating Hours:
– Monday closed
– Tuesday 9:00am – 2:00pm
– Wednesday 9:00am – 2:00pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 2:00pm
– Friday 9:00am – 2:00pm
– Saturday 9:00am – 2:00pm
– Sunday 9:00am – 2:00pm
Admission Cost:
– FREE
Website

 

 

Paseo El Hatillo – La Lagunita

Address: Av. Principal de la Lagunita, Municipio El Hatillo, Caracas
Phone: +58 0212 2115200
Operating Hours:
-Monday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Tuesday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Wednesday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Friday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Saturday 9:00am – 8:00pm
– Sunday 9:00pm – 8:00pm
Admission Cost: N/A
Website

 

 

Universidad Central de Venezuela

Address: UCV, Facultad de Ciencias, Caracas 1040
Phone: +58 212 6052868
Operating Hours:
– Monday 7:00am – 6:00pm
– Tuesday 7:00am – 6:00pm
– Wednesday 7:00am – 6:00pm
– Thursday 7:00am – 6:00pm
– Friday 7:00am – 6:00pm
– Saturday closed
– Sunday closed
Admission Cost: N/A
Website