Museo Colonial
Step into Colombia's colonial past at Museo Colonial, housed in a stunning 17th-century building, featuring art and artifacts from Spanish rule.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Museo Colonial
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Colombia's colonial past at Museo Colonial, housed in a stunning 17th-century building, featuring art and artifacts from Spanish rule.
"This museum is legitimately beautiful and interesting, covering the period after the conquest."
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to fully absorb the exhibits and the building's history.
🗣️ Consider a guided tour
Enhance your understanding of the colonial context with an expert guide.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gregorio Vásquez de Arce y Ceballos Masterpieces
Main exhibition halls
Behold the breathtaking works of this renowned colonial artist, showcasing intricate detail and profound artistry.
17th-Century Claustro de las Aulas
The entire museum building
Experience history within the walls of this magnificent colonial building, a masterpiece of architecture itself.
Religious Artifacts and Daily Life Exhibits
Various galleries
Explore a rich collection of religious art, textiles, silverware, and insights into daily life during Spanish rule.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Understanding the Value Proposition
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Recomendaciones en Bogotá, porfa :)
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to fully absorb the exhibits and the building's history.
🗣️ Consider a guided tour
Enhance your understanding of the colonial context with an expert guide.
r/travel City Destination of the Week: Bogotá
Museo del Oro (Bogotá)
📸 Check photography rules
Policies can vary; confirm at the entrance before taking photos.
☕ Explore La Candelaria
The museum is perfectly situated for a broader exploration of the historic district.
Colombia: Medellin or Bogotá?
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to fully absorb the exhibits and the building's history.
🗣️ Consider a guided tour
Enhance your understanding of the colonial context with an expert guide.
📸 Check photography rules
Policies can vary; confirm at the entrance before taking photos.
☕ Explore La Candelaria
The museum is perfectly situated for a broader exploration of the historic district.
🧐 Engage with challenging themes
Don't miss exhibits that thoughtfully address race and ethnicity in colonial history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Museo Colonial for its beautiful collection of colonial art and its stunning 17th-century building, offering a deep dive into Colombia's past. While some note that English translations could be more extensive, the affordable entry and the unique historical context make it a highly recommended stop in La Candelaria.
"Don’t skip this. It covers the period after the conquest, it’s very good. I’m one of those foreigners who paid COP 44,000 admission and I admit it’s a weird contrast to just 5,000 COP for Museo del Oro, but this is legitimately beautiful and interesting. Lots of religious art and material about daily life, work, and education under Spanish rule. It also includes some bold exhibits asking tough questions about how race/ethnicity is handled in Colombia even today and how that has roots in colonial history times. My only complaint is that non-Spanish speakers aren’t as well-supported as they could be here. Not all exhibits have English translations."
Isaac Land
"If you are looking for something to do and are close by i would recommend it. A lot of old paintings and a few other things. But a little strange that someone follows you from room to room and watches your every move."
Scott Collins
"Step into a time capsule at the Museo Colonial (Museo de Arte Colonial)! Housed in the magnificent 17th-century Claustro de las Aulas, this museum is a masterclass in Colombian colonial history and art. The building itself, designed by Juan Bautista Coluccini, is as much a masterpiece as the collections it houses.
The museum's collection of 1,577+ pieces is simply stunning. The highlight? The works of Gregorio Vásquez de Arce y Ceballos will leave you speechless. From intricate textiles to gleaming silverware and remarkable paintings, each piece tells a story of colonial life in the New Kingdom of Granada.
Post-2017 renovation has breathed new life into this historic space, with thoughtful curation that brings colonial Colombia vividly to life. The transformation from Jesuit college to military barracks to museum adds fascinating layers to its rich history.
What makes it special:
- Housed in a spectacular 17th-century building
- Extensive collection of colonial art
- Beautiful religious artifacts
- Excellent guided tours available
- Fascinating architectural details
Tips for visitors:
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context
- Plan 1.5-2 hours for your visit
- Perfect for art and history enthusiasts
- Located in historic La Candelaria
- Great stop on a colonial architecture tour
- Photography policies vary, check at entrance
Pro tip: Don't rush through - take time to appreciate how the building's architecture complements the exhibitions. The former Jesuit college setting adds an authentic dimension to the colonial art experience!"
Daivid Loksh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Museo Colonial is located in the heart of the La Candelaria historic district. You can easily reach it by taxi or ride-sharing service. If you're exploring La Candelaria on foot, it's a pleasant walk from many points of interest.
While there isn't a direct metro station to the museum, you can take a TransMilenio bus to a nearby station like Las Aguas and then walk a short distance to La Candelaria.
Many visitors combine a visit to Museo Colonial with a walk through La Candelaria to see its colorful streets, plazas, and other historical sites.
Parking in La Candelaria can be challenging. It's often easier to use ride-sharing services or public transport, or to park in a secure lot a few blocks away.
If you're visiting nearby attractions like Plaza de Bolívar or Museo del Oro, it's a manageable and scenic walk to Museo Colonial through the historic streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, but historically, they have been around COP 4,000-5,000, making it a very affordable experience compared to some other museums.
Generally, advance booking is not required for Museo Colonial. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.
Opening hours can change, but typically the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, with reduced hours on Sundays. It's always best to check the official website or call ahead for the most current information.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not always widely advertised, but it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter upon arrival.
Yes, the general admission ticket typically grants access to all permanent and temporary exhibitions within the museum.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum's collections and appreciating the architecture.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and the art. Inquire about tour availability and times upon arrival.
While the museum focuses on historical and religious art, the building's architecture and some of the artifacts might capture older children's interest. It's more geared towards adults and history enthusiasts.
Photography policies can vary. It's essential to check at the entrance or with staff before taking pictures, as flash photography is often prohibited.
Yes, restrooms are available on-site for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but flash is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Always confirm the current policy at the entrance.
The stunning 17th-century architecture of the building itself, particularly the courtyards and arches, offers excellent photographic opportunities. The intricate details of the colonial art are also highly photogenic.
Yes, with good lighting and by respecting the no-flash rule, you can capture beautiful images of the paintings, textiles, and silverware.
Professional photography or videography might require special permits or advance arrangements. It's best to contact the museum directly if you plan a professional shoot.
A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens would be ideal for capturing the details of the art and the ambiance of the historic building.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for families, consider focusing on the visual aspects of the art and the stories behind the artifacts. A guided tour could help bring the exhibits to life for children, and combining the visit with a walk through the colorful streets of La Candelaria can provide a more varied and engaging experience for the whole family.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
History enthusiasts will find the museum's exploration of the enduring impact of colonial policies on contemporary Colombian society particularly compelling. The thoughtful curation encourages critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of the nation's past. Art lovers will be captivated by the quality and variety of the colonial art, from intricate religious iconography to finely crafted silverware.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Claustro de las Aulas
The post-2017 renovation has further enhanced the building's appeal, ensuring that its historical integrity is preserved while making it a more accessible and engaging space for visitors. The way the architecture complements the exhibitions is a key part of the museum's charm, making it a must-see for those interested in colonial history and design.
Exploring the museum is an opportunity to appreciate not only the art within but also the enduring legacy of the building's past. The intricate details and the sheer scale of the structure provide a compelling backdrop to the colonial art and artifacts on display.
A Journey Through Colonial Colombian Art
Beyond paintings, the museum features a diverse range of artifacts, including intricate textiles, gleaming silverware, and beautiful religious objects. These items provide valuable insights into the daily life, work, and education systems that were in place under Spanish rule. The curation thoughtfully presents these objects, allowing visitors to connect with the past on a tangible level.
Furthermore, the museum doesn't shy away from addressing the complex legacies of the colonial era. Some exhibits bravely tackle how issues of race and ethnicity, deeply rooted in colonial history, continue to shape Colombian society today. This thoughtful approach adds a critical dimension to the visitor experience, encouraging reflection and dialogue.
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