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Capitolio Nacional
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Historical site
The Capitolio Nacional in Bogotá is the seat of the Colombian Congress and one of the most significant examples of Neoclassical architecture in South America. Construction began in 1848 during the presidency of Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera but was not fully completed until 1926 due to civil wars and lack of funds. The design originally came from Danish architect Thomas Reed but was adapted by several experts over the decades. The building is constructed almost entirely of yellow sandstone extracted from quarries near the city. The imposing facade facing Bolívar Square is characterized by a series of monumental Ionic columns. Inside are magnificent halls such as the Salón Elíptico, where presidential inaugurations take place. The Capitol is a stone testament to the political stability and development of the Colombian republic.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Museo Iglesia Santa Clara · Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen
- Nearby: Chía (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 63 | 147 | 264 | 293 | 242 | 214 | 171 | 145 | 229 | 203 | 113 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Capitolio Nacional is the seat of the Colombian Congress and can be visited on certain days via guided tours. Access is restricted during events.
Typical hours
Guided tours are usually offered on weekday mornings, with exact times varying. It is advisable to check the official Congress website in advance.
Photography
Photography is allowed without flash during the tour in most areas. In session halls, photography may be prohibited; follow the guide's instructions.
Time needed
A guided tour of the building lasts about 45 minutes to one hour. Allow extra time to explore the surrounding Plaza de Bolívar.
Combine with
The Capitolio Nacional is right on Plaza de Bolívar, which also hosts the Cathedral and Casa de Nariño. The Gold Museum is also within walking distance.
Getting there
The square is in Bogotá's historic center, reachable by TransMilenio bus to Museo del Oro station. From there it is a five-minute walk.
Insider tip
Reserve the tour at least one day in advance via the official website. The best view of the building is from the Plaza de Bolívar.
Geography
Facts
- The construction period of the building spanned a total of 78 years.
- Thomas Reed was commissioned by the government for the design in 1846.
- The facade on Bolívar Square features 14 monumental columns.
- The Salón Elíptico contains a famous mural by Santiago Martínez Delgado.
- The building has no dome, which is unusual for capitol buildings worldwide.
- It was officially declared a National Monument of Colombia in 1975.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Capitolio Nacional (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the interior of the Capitolio?
Visits are usually only possible as part of special, pre-arranged guided tours.
Where is the building located?
It is located on the south side of Plaza de Bolívar in Bogotá.
What is the function of the Capitolio Nacional?
It is the seat of the Colombian Congress (Senate and House of Representatives).
Is photography allowed from the outside?
Yes, the building is a popular photo subject from Plaza de Bolívar.
Why doesn't the building have a dome?
For aesthetic reasons and due to the long construction period, a dome was ultimately omitted.
Capitolio Nacional: where is it located?
Capitolio Nacional is located in Colombia.
Capitolio Nacional: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo Iglesia Santa Clara, Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen.
Capitolio Nacional: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Capitolio Nacional: why is it worth visiting?
The Capitolio Nacional in Bogotá is the seat of the Colombian Congress and one of the most significant examples of Neoclassical architecture in South America.
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