National Capitol (Capitolio Nacional)

The basics

The masterpiece of British architect Thomas Reed, the National Capitol building took over 70 years to finish and is now one of Bogota’s most significant architectural works. That said, it’s a staple of many tours of Colombia’s capital—whether exploring on foot or by car, these typically cover the highlights of La Candelaria (Historic Old Town), which include Plaza de Bolivar, Chorro de Quevedo, the Botero Museum, Teatro Colón, and Casa de Nariño.

Things to know before you go

• You can’t go inside the National Capitol (Capitolio Nacional) unless you’re on official business, but you can take photographs of its exterior.

• Plaza de Bolivar is a public square, so admission is free.

• The surfaces leading up to the structure are flat and easily accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

• Just off the Plaza de Bolivar square, you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants with toilets.

How to get there

If you’re staying in La Candelaria, you’ll likely be within a 10-15 minute walk of Plaza de Bolivar Square, which sits rights in the city's center. The closest bus stop is a few minutes away and is serviced by more than 25 bus routes.

When to get there

Plaza de Bolivar, the sprawling square on which the National Capitol sits, is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Try to admire the building in both daylight and when it's illuminated at night—take caution if you’re exploring late at night, as some areas of Bogota can be unsafe.

The historical highlights of Plaza Bolivar

Bogota’s central square is rife with architectural gems. Highlights include La Catedral Primada, a neoclassical landmark dating back to 1807—it houses the tomb of Bogota’s founder, plus plenty of art. Liévano Palace (Palacio Liévano) is another striking structure inspired by French architectural styles. Both places are typically featured on Bogota walking tours.