Colombian National Museum, National museum in Santa Fe, Bogotá, Colombia
The Colombian National Museum displays over 20,000 pieces inside a building constructed in 1874 in central Bogotá. The facility spans several floors and houses galleries for archaeology, art, history, and ethnography.
Founded on July 28, 1823, this institution occupies the premises of a former prison called Panóptico, which was converted into a museum in 1948. The transformation allowed the preservation of the historic structure while opening it to the public.
The permanent collections showcase archaeological artifacts dating back 10,000 years and works by artists such as Fernando Botero and Débora Arango. The galleries offer insight into different periods and artistic movements throughout the country's development.
The museum, managed by the Colombian Ministry of Culture, opens Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Given the size of the collection, visitors should plan at least two hours for a thorough visit.
The architectural structure forms a Greek cross with arches, domes, and columns made of stone and brick. This design principle was developed in the 19th century for prisons to facilitate surveillance and control.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
