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Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios

4.4
·9 reviews·Santa Marta, Colombia

A historic former hospital now housing archives and a lively bazaar, offering a glimpse into the past and local crafts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds for official business

CrowdLow
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Patio central

Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds for official business

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic former hospital now housing archives and a lively bazaar, offering a glimpse into the past and local crafts.

4.4
(9 reviews)

"This building requires maintenance, as its history is very interesting. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Patience for Passports

If visiting for passport services, be prepared for potentially long waits. Some visitors report multiple visits without success. :passport_control:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Don't miss the bazaar for unique gifts! It's a great spot to find local crafts and mementos. :gift:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historical Architecture

Historical Architecture

Explore the enduring structure of a centuries-old institution, a testament to past eras of medicine and public service.

TikTok
Magdalena Governor's Archive

Magdalena Governor's Archive

Discover historical documents and records housed within this significant building, offering a deep dive into regional history.

Reddit
Souvenir Bazaar

Souvenir Bazaar

Browse a local bazaar for unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect for capturing memories of your visit.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Past and Present

The Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios is a place of historical significance, now housing archives and offices. While some areas are open to the public, it's primarily a functional building. Be prepared for administrative processes if you're visiting for official reasons, as some visitors report lengthy waits for services like passport issuance. Reddit

A Glimpse into History

This former hospital holds a rich, albeit sometimes somber, history. While it's no longer a functioning medical facility, its architecture and the stories it holds are captivating. Some visitors explore its abandoned sections, but be aware of safety and access restrictions. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for official business
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Bazaar is active for shopping
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Parte 1. Luego de que piden que compren hilo para operar a Julián en el Hospital San Juan de Dios, los doctores le dicen que no pueden operarlo, el día martes nos indican que lo operarían hoy jueves y tampoco lo hicieron, y le programan la cita para septiembre. Pero lo más indignante de esta historia es que, al salir los papás del niño, les indican que no pueden hacerlo porque tienen una denuncia ...
@cristianalvarezgt
140K likes • 3.2M views

⏳ Patience for Passports

If visiting for passport services, be prepared for potentially long waits. Some visitors report multiple visits without success. Reddit :passport_control:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Don't miss the bazaar for unique gifts! It's a great spot to find local crafts and mementos. Reddit :gift:

La mayoría de los hospitales psiquiátricos antiguos y ahora abandonados, tienen historias tristes y horribles, no me sorprende nada que este en especial este lleno de espíritus hostiles, como al que le llaman “El Rey” porque creen ustedes que le llaman así? 😳💀 #lugaresabandonados #lugaresembrujados #hospitalpsiquiatricoabandonado #hospitalpsiquiatrico #terror #fantasmas #entesdelmasallá #entesdelb...
@marijoparanormal
132.4K likes • 1.3M views
historia paranormal del hospital san Juan de dios #historiasbizarras #fantasmas #terror #paranormal #hospitalesabandonados #bogota🇨🇴
@edijcl3003
35.1K likes • 1.8M views

🚶‍♂️ Explore with Caution

While some parts are abandoned and rumored to be haunted, exercise caution and respect any access restrictions. TikTok+1 :warning:

🏛️ Appreciate the History

Take time to absorb the historical atmosphere and stories of this former medical institution. TikTok :classical_building:

Recorrido por un antiguo hospital 🤯 #dani3palacios #paranormal #hospital
@dani3palacioss
24.3K likes • 952.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Patience for Passports

If visiting for passport services, be prepared for potentially long waits. Some visitors report multiple visits without success. Reddit :passport_control:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Don't miss the bazaar for unique gifts! It's a great spot to find local crafts and mementos. Reddit :gift:

🚶‍♂️ Explore with Caution

While some parts are abandoned and rumored to be haunted, exercise caution and respect any access restrictions. TikTok+1 :warning:

🏛️ Appreciate the History

Take time to absorb the historical atmosphere and stories of this former medical institution. TikTok :classical_building:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(9 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios is a site of historical importance, housing archives and a vibrant bazaar. While appreciated for its historical architecture and souvenir shopping opportunities, visitors seeking administrative services, like passport issuance, should be prepared for potential delays and multiple visits. Reddit

"This site houses the Magdalena Governor's historical archive and other offices. This building requires maintenance, as its history is very interesting."

Marcela Sacristan

"There is a bazaar there where you can find many souvenirs for gifts."

Yamid Duran

"I've been there five times and I still haven't been able to get my passport."

Anamar Garcia Jimeno

What People Like

Historical architecture
Souvenir bazaar
Archival resources

What People Dislike

Slow administrative processes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios is located in the heart of the city. Public transportation options like buses and taxis are readily available. If driving, research local parking availability beforehand. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in this central area. It's advisable to check for nearby public parking lots or consider using ride-sharing services. TikTok

The historical archive is within the main building. Public transport is recommended for easy access to the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the public areas and the bazaar is generally free. However, if you are visiting for specific administrative services like passport issuance, there might be associated procedures. Reddit

The opening hours for the historical archive can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Magdalena Governor's office for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Official tours for the abandoned sections are not typically advertised. Exploring these areas may be done independently but comes with risks and potential access restrictions. TikTok+1

No, there is no admission fee to enter the bazaar. You can browse and shop freely. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can visit the Magdalena Governor's historical archive, explore the bazaar for souvenirs, and appreciate the historical architecture. Some may be interested in the rumored paranormal aspects of its abandoned sections. TikTokReddit+1

Accessibility information for the entire building, especially older sections, may be limited. It's advisable to inquire directly about specific needs. TikTok

While the abandoned parts are rumored to be haunted, official paranormal tours are not commonly offered. Independent exploration is possible but requires caution. TikTok+2

This former hospital has a long history of serving the community, witnessing both healing and tragedy. It's a significant historical landmark. TikTok+2

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for any signage or ask for permission, especially if you plan to photograph official offices or archives. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios is primarily an administrative and historical site. Dining options are typically found in the surrounding areas. Reddit

The area surrounding the hospital likely offers a variety of local eateries and restaurants serving regional cuisine. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The historical architecture of the building itself offers great photographic opportunities. The bazaar can also provide colorful and lively shots. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around government buildings. Check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Photography of archival materials is usually prohibited to preserve the documents. Always ask for permission. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios can explore the historical architecture and the souvenir bazaar. Reddit The bazaar offers a chance for children to pick out small mementos. While the historical significance might be more for adults, the visual aspects of the building and the lively atmosphere of the bazaar can still be engaging for younger visitors. Be mindful that some areas might not be suitable for very young children due to their historical nature or potential disrepair if exploring less maintained sections. TikTok

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, the Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios is a treasure trove. You can delve into the past by visiting the Magdalena Governor's historical archive, which holds valuable regional records. Reddit Beyond the archives, simply walking through the building and imagining its past as a bustling hospital offers a unique historical immersion. TikTok Consider researching the hospital's history beforehand to enhance your appreciation of its significance.

🛍️ Shoppers and Souvenir Hunters

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Echoes of a Former Hospital

The Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios carries a profound history as a former medical institution. For over two centuries, it was a place of healing and, unfortunately, also of suffering and tragedy. TikTok+1 This legacy has led to many stories and rumors, with some TikTok videos even touching on paranormal claims associated with its abandoned sections. TikTok+1 While the hospital no longer provides medical care, its walls hold the echoes of countless lives touched by its services.

Today, the building serves a different purpose, housing the Magdalena Governor's historical archive and other administrative offices. Reddit This transition means that while parts of the building are accessible for official business or to explore the bazaar, other sections may be off-limits or in a state of disrepair. Visitors interested in its past should approach with respect for its history and any current operational functions. TikTok

Navigating Official Business and Local Crafts

For those visiting the Antigua Casa del Hospital San Juan de Dios for administrative purposes, such as obtaining a passport, it's crucial to be prepared for a potentially lengthy process. Reddit users have shared experiences of needing multiple visits to complete tasks, highlighting the need for patience and persistence. Reddit This underscores the importance of checking requirements and expected timelines beforehand.

On a more vibrant note, the building also hosts a bazaar where visitors can find a variety of souvenirs and local crafts. Reddit This offers a pleasant contrast to the administrative side, providing an opportunity to engage with local artisans and find unique gifts. It's a good reminder that even functional buildings can offer diverse experiences for visitors.

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