Museo de la Independencia Casa del Florero
A small museum in a colonial building, commemorating the 'flower vase' incident that sparked Colombian independence.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Museo de la Independencia Casa del Florero
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A small museum in a colonial building, commemorating the 'flower vase' incident that sparked Colombian independence.
"Foreigners get charged 44.000COD (10 USD), locals pay 10.000 COD (2.3 USD). That's a rip-off of the finest art."
Check Entrance Fees
Verify current entrance fees, especially for foreigners, as prices can vary significantly. :moneybag:
Brush up on Spanish
Most exhibits are in Spanish. A basic understanding will enhance your experience. :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Famous Flower Vase
Main exhibit area
The very object that sparked a revolution. A small but historically significant artifact.
Bolívar Square View
Balcony
Enjoy a picturesque view of the historic Bolívar Square from the museum's balcony.
Colonial Architecture
Throughout the building
Experience the charm of a well-preserved colonial-era building, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Foreigner Pricing Concerns
Language Barrier & Exhibit Depth
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Entrance Fees
Verify current entrance fees, especially for foreigners, as prices can vary significantly. :moneybag:
Brush up on Spanish
Most exhibits are in Spanish. A basic understanding will enhance your experience. :speech_balloon:
Quick Visit Expected
The museum is small; plan for a visit of about 10-30 minutes. :stopwatch:
Enjoy the Garden
The garden is a peaceful spot, especially if you feel observed elsewhere. :seedling:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Entrance Fees
Verify current entrance fees, especially for foreigners, as prices can vary significantly. :moneybag:
Brush up on Spanish
Most exhibits are in Spanish. A basic understanding will enhance your experience. :speech_balloon:
Quick Visit Expected
The museum is small; plan for a visit of about 10-30 minutes. :stopwatch:
Enjoy the Garden
The garden is a peaceful spot, especially if you feel observed elsewhere. :seedling:
Balcony View
Don't miss the view of Plaza de Bolívar from the museum's balcony. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Museo de la Independencia Casa del Florero are mixed, with many visitors highlighting the significant price difference for foreigners as a major drawback. While the historical significance of the 'flower vase' incident is acknowledged, the small size of the museum, exhibits primarily in Spanish, and sometimes uncomfortable atmosphere detract from the experience for some. The view from the balcony and the colonial architecture are often cited as positive aspects.
"Mixed feelings. Nice piece of history if you can read and understand Spanish. Foreigners get charged 44.000COD (10 USD), locals pay 10.000 COD (2.3 USD). That's a rip-off of the finest art. Even other places only double the price for foreigners, and this museum is charging x4. There is little to nothing displayed in English. I DO NOT recommend it, guys. It's not worth it at all. The guards were following me like mice follow the cheese. I believe they just wanted me to do something wrong. I felt very uncomfortable. It's way too small for this price. My personal highlight was the garden because no guards were watching me. Toilets smelled bad. There is so much room for improvement. Cheers and stay away from this museum."
Reinhold Braun
"They charge foreigners double and all u get to see is a bunch of paintings of colonial time military"
Alex Kewl
"It's an interesting museum, with what could be a great story to tell but it is displayed too flat and it can make it a bit tedious at some points. If it could have more interaction with the visitor it would be amazing.... The highlight? Going out on the balcony and seeing the Bolivar Square.
Remember, it all started with a flower vase."
Alejandra Lovera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Bogotá, near Plaza de Bolívar. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transport that services the downtown area. Many visitors walk to it as part of exploring the historic center.
Parking directly at the museum is limited. It's recommended to use nearby public parking lots or garages in the downtown area, or opt for ride-sharing services for convenience.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. It's best to check the official website or recent visitor information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
The museum is housed in a historic colonial building, which may present some accessibility challenges. While some areas might be accessible, it's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific information regarding ramps or elevators.
Photography policies can change. Generally, non-flash photography might be permitted for personal use, but it's always best to confirm with museum staff upon arrival to avoid any issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can be a point of contention. While locals might pay around 4,000-10,000 COP, foreigners have reported being charged significantly more, sometimes up to 44,000 COP. It's crucial to confirm the exact price for your nationality upon arrival.
Discounts are typically offered for students, seniors, and children, especially for Colombian nationals. Foreigner discounts are less common, and the price disparity is a frequent complaint.
For most visits, booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, especially during weekdays. However, if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or on a weekend, it might be wise to check if online booking is available to save time.
Given its size, a visit to Museo de la Independencia Casa del Florero is quite brief. Many visitors spend around 10 to 30 minutes exploring the exhibits, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing.
Crowd levels can vary. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more intimate experience. Weekends and afternoons might see more visitors, especially during peak tourist seasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum's primary draw is the historical significance of the 'flower vase' incident that sparked Colombian independence. You'll also find exhibits on national independence and citizenship, colonial-era artifacts, and paintings. The view from the balcony is also a highlight.
While it's a historical site, the exhibits might be less engaging for very young children due to the language barrier and the nature of the displays. Older children interested in history might find it more appealing.
Casa del Florero is historically significant as the site where the 'Grito de Independencia' (Cry of Independence) occurred on July 20, 1810. The incident, involving a dispute over a flower vase, is considered a pivotal moment in Colombia's fight for independence.
Information on official guided tours is scarce. Given that exhibits are primarily in Spanish, a self-guided tour might be challenging for non-Spanish speakers. Consider hiring a private guide if you want a deeper understanding.
The atmosphere can be mixed. Some visitors find it historically interesting, while others report feeling uncomfortable due to perceived surveillance by guards or the high entrance fee for foreigners. The garden offers a more relaxed ambiance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities or restaurants located within the Museo de la Independencia Casa del Florero itself.
The museum is located in the heart of Bogotá's historic center, surrounded by numerous dining options. You can find everything from traditional Colombian cuisine to international fare in the cafes and restaurants around Plaza de Bolívar.
You'll find a wide variety of food, including arepas, bandeja paisa, ajiaco, and other Colombian specialties. Many establishments also offer coffee, pastries, and international dishes.
Yes, the area around Plaza de Bolívar offers a range of options, including street food vendors and smaller local eateries that provide more affordable meals compared to upscale restaurants.
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside museums to preserve the exhibits. It's best to consume any food or beverages before entering or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While some visitors report being able to take non-flash photos, it's always best to confirm with museum staff upon entry. Flash photography is generally prohibited to protect the artifacts.
The balcony offering views of Plaza de Bolívar is a popular photo spot. The colonial architecture of the building itself also provides picturesque opportunities.
Commercial photography or videography usually requires special permission from the museum administration. For personal use, non-flash photography is generally tolerated, but always check first.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, as interior lighting might be subdued. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the architecture and the view from the balcony.
Selfies are generally permitted as long as they are part of personal photography and do not disrupt other visitors or violate any specific rules about posing in front of exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your children have a strong interest in history and can read Spanish, they might find the story of the 'flower vase' incident intriguing. Otherwise, consider focusing on the visual aspects of the colonial architecture and the view from the balcony. Nearby attractions in Plaza de Bolívar might offer more engaging activities for younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Given the small size of the museum and the language barrier, it might be worth prioritizing other attractions in Bogotá that offer more perceived value for money, such as the Gold Museum or Botero Museum, which are often more affordable or even free. If you do decide to visit, be prepared for the potential cost and manage your expectations regarding the duration and depth of the experience.
🏛️ History Buffs
While the presentation might be considered basic by some, the historical significance of the 'flower vase' incident and the colonial architecture of the building itself provide a tangible link to the past. If you can read Spanish, you'll gain the most from the exhibits. For those who can't, focusing on the visual elements and the symbolic importance of the site might still be rewarding. It's a quick but historically potent stop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Casa del Florero
Visitors can expect to see artifacts and displays related to this period. However, the presentation of this rich history has received mixed reviews. Some find the exhibits 'flat' and lacking in interactive elements, making the historical narrative feel somewhat tedious. The primary language for all descriptions is Spanish, which can be a significant barrier for international visitors seeking to fully engage with the historical context.
Despite these criticisms, the museum's location and its connection to a foundational moment in Colombian history make it a point of interest for those keen on understanding the nation's origins. The building itself, a colonial-era structure, adds to the historical ambiance, offering a tangible link to the past.
Navigating Visitor Experience and Pricing
Beyond the cost, the museum's size and exhibit depth are also frequently mentioned. It's described as a small museum, with some visitors completing their tour in as little as 10 minutes. The exhibits, primarily in Spanish, are sometimes criticized for being too static and lacking engagement, which can make the visit feel underwhelming, especially given the higher entrance fees for foreigners. Some visitors also reported feeling uncomfortable due to the attention from guards, adding to a less-than-ideal experience.
However, not all feedback is negative. The historical significance of the site is acknowledged, and the view from the balcony overlooking Plaza de Bolívar is often cited as a pleasant aspect of the visit. The small garden area also provides a tranquil escape. For those who can read Spanish and are deeply interested in the specific historical event, the museum offers a concentrated dose of history, albeit within a compact and sometimes contentious framework.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit