Plizio Visual Lab

Bolívar Square

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Plaza de Bolívar is the historical and political heart of Bogotá and all of Colombia. Originally known as the Plaza Mayor, the square houses some of the nation's most critical institutions, including the National Capitol, the Palace of Justice, the Liévano Palace, and the Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá. In the center of the square stands the first bronze statue of the Liberator Simón Bolívar, created in 1846 by Italian sculptor Pietro Tenerani. The site has witnessed numerous significant historical events, ranging from declarations of independence to dramatic political conflicts like the 1985 Palace of Justice siege. The architecture surrounding the square is an eclectic mix of colonial, neoclassical, and modern styles, reflecting the various eras of Colombian history. Today, the Plaza is a lively gathering spot for citizens and tourists alike, as well as the focal point for state ceremonies and public demonstrations. Spanning nearly 14,000 square meters, it is one of the largest and most important urban squares in Latin America.

Location: Colombia
Top sights: Plaza de Bolívar · Palacio Lievano (City Town Hall) · Capilla del Sagrario
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

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Visiting

Bolívar Square is a public space, free and open to all visitors at any time. You can leisurely walk around the entire square to admire the facades of surrounding historic buildings, including the Cathedral and the Capitol.

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Typical hours

As a public square, Bolívar Square is accessible 24 hours a day. The surrounding buildings like the Cathedral typically have daytime opening hours, often with breaks for religious services.

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Photography

Photography of Bolívar Square and its monuments is allowed. For interior shots of the Cathedral, inquire beforehand about any restrictions.

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Time needed

A visit to the square typically takes 30 minutes to an hour to walk around and enjoy the architecture. If you also visit the Cathedral, add another 30 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with the nearby Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) and the Palace of Justice. The historic La Candelaria neighborhood is also within walking distance and provides more sights.

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Getting there

The square is located in Bogotá's historic center, easily reachable by TransMilenio bus (stops like Museo del Oro). Taxis and ride-sharing services are also convenient options from anywhere in the city.

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Insider tip

Arrive early in the morning before 9 a.m. to avoid crowds and enjoy the square in a quieter atmosphere. Be mindful of your belongings, as pickpocketing can occur in busy areas.

Geography

Coordinates

4.59800, -74.07610

Facts

The bronze statue of Simón Bolívar was erected in 1846.
The square covers an area of approximately 13,903 square meters.
The National Capitol was under construction from 1848 to 1926.
The Palace of Justice siege occurred here in November 1985.
It was originally used as a public market and bullfighting arena.
The Primatial Cathedral on the square is the largest in Colombia.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Capitolio Nacional<1 km · SWExplore →

El Campín Stadium1 km · EExplore →

Monserrate Sanctuary2 km · NExplore →

Bogotá3 km · EExplore →

Maloka Interactive Museum4 km · SEExplore →

Mundo Aventura7 km · SExplore →

Chía8 km · EExplore →

Bogotá Free Trade Zone8 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Bolívar Square (10)

Plaza de Bolívar

Main square of Bogotá, capital of Colombia. Surrounded by cathedral and government buildings.

Palacio Lievano (City Town Hall)

City hall of Bogotá. Houses the municipal government on the main square.

Capilla del Sagrario

Chapel next to the cathedral. Contains religious artworks.

Casa del Cabildo Eclesiástico

Historic building on the square. Former seat of the ecclesiastical council.

Capilla de San Pedro

Chapel in Bogotá. Dedicated to Saint Peter.

Cathedral Metropolitan Basilica of Bogotá & Primate of Colombia

National monument of Colombia. Main church of the country on Bolívar Square.

Museo Casa 20 de Julio🏛 museum

National monument of Colombia. Museum about the 1810 declaration of independence.

Museo de Trajes🏛 museum

Museum of costumes and clothing in Bogotá. Displays historical garments.

Iglesia de San Ignacio

National Monument of Colombia. Jesuit baroque church in Bogotá.

Casa Manuelita Saenz🏛 museum

Museum in the former home of Manuelita Sáenz. Exhibits her life story.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Which buildings surround Bolívar Square?

The National Capitol, Palace of Justice, the Cathedral, and City Hall.

Is the square safe for tourists?

There is a lot of police presence during the day, but watch out for pickpockets.

Are there events held in the square?

Yes, concerts, political demonstrations, and religious ceremonies often take place here.

Is it allowed to feed the pigeons?

Yes, many locals sell corn for the thousands of pigeons in the square.

What is the best way to get there?

Take the TransMilenio to 'Museo del Oro' or 'Las Aguas' station.

Bolívar Square: where is it located?

Bolívar Square is located in Colombia.

Bolívar Square: what is there to see?

Highlights include Plaza de Bolívar, Palacio Lievano (City Town Hall), Capilla del Sagrario.

Bolívar Square: when is the best time to visit?