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Castellani House
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Historical site
Castellani House, situated on the edge of the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown, stands as a magnificent example of late 19th-century colonial architecture. The building was designed and constructed between 1877 and 1882 by the Italian architect Cesar Castellani. Originally intended as a residence for the Government Secretary, it later housed various high-ranking officials before becoming the home of Prime Minister Forbes Burnham in the 1960s. This prominent wooden structure is characterized by its balanced symmetry, wrap-around verandas, and exquisite decorative woodwork. Since 1993, Castellani House has served as the home of the National Art Gallery of Guyana. It houses a premier collection of national artwork that chronicles the country's cultural evolution and its diverse artistic influences. The house itself is recognized as one of the best-preserved historic buildings in the capital and remains a spirited testament to Guyana's artistic and political heritage.
- Location: Guyana
- Top sights: Singh's ac repairs · Jesus is Lord · The Fellowship of Divine Metaphysical Church
- Nearby: Vreed-en-Hoop (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 181 | 117 | 94 | 144 | 315 | 314 | 302 | 193 | 102 | 103 | 181 | 257 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Castellani House houses the National Art Gallery of Guyana and is usually open to the public with exhibitions of Guyanese art. Entry is often free or low-cost; check on site.
Typical hours
The gallery is typically open weekdays and Saturdays, usually closed on Sundays. Exact hours may vary, so checking the official website or calling ahead is recommended.
Photography
Indoor photography without flash is usually allowed in the exhibition rooms, but check at the reception. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions on photos.
Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour to view the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions at a leisurely pace. Art enthusiasts often spend up to two hours here.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Georgetown Botanical Gardens (about 10 minutes walk) and Austin House. The Guyana Zoo is also not far away.
Getting there
Castellani House is located on Vlissengen Road in Georgetown, easily reachable by taxi or bus. Take bus number 42 heading east - ask the driver for the Castellani House stop.
Insider tip
Visit the gallery in the morning when it is less crowded and the natural light through the windows enhances the paintings. Also, take a stroll through the mansion's garden.
Geography
Facts
- The building was constructed from 1877 to 1882 by architect Cesar Castellani.
- It was formally repurposed as the National Art Gallery in May 1993.
- The institution manages the National Collection of Fine Arts, established in 1962.
- President Forbes Burnham lived in this residence for approximately 20 years.
- The gallery holds rotating exhibitions featuring prominent Guyanese artists.
- The structure is made primarily of native Guyana hardwoods like greenheart.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Castellani House (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is housed in Castellani House today?
It houses the National Gallery of Art of Guyana, featuring a large collection of local art.
Is there an admission fee for the gallery?
Entry is usually free, though donations are appreciated.
What are the opening hours?
Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Who was the architect?
The house was designed by the Italian architect Cesar Castellani.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is often not allowed in the gallery rooms to protect the artworks.
Castellani House: where is it located?
Castellani House is located in Guyana.
Castellani House: what is there to see?
Highlights include Singh's ac repairs, Jesus is Lord, The Fellowship of Divine Metaphysical Church.
Castellani House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Castellani House: why is it worth visiting?
Castellani House, situated on the edge of the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown, stands as a magnificent example of late 19th-century colonial architecture.
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History & landmarks
🗺️
Georgetown City Hall
A neo-Gothic architectural gem often described as one of the most beautiful wooden buildings in the Caribbean.
🗺️
Castellani House
The building houses the National Art Gallery of Guyana and features an extensive art collection.
1763 Monument
A monument in Georgetown commemorating the 1763 slave rebellion and the national hero Cuffy.
Promenade Gardens
A historic public garden in Georgetown featuring monuments and a traditional bandstand.
Walter Roth Museum
A museum dedicated to anthropology, preserving the indigenous culture and history of Guyana.
🗺️
Non-Aligned Monument
A monument in Georgetown honoring the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement.
State House
The official residence of the President of Guyana, a stately wooden building of historic significance.
Georgetown Cenotaph
A war memorial in Georgetown commemorating the fallen of both World Wars.
More places
Colgrain Swimming Pool
A popular public swimming pool in Georgetown where many Guyanese children learn to swim and compete.
1763 Monument
A bronze statue honoring Cuffy, the leader of the 1763 Berbice slave uprising.
Guyana Gold Board
The official state institution for purchasing, testing, and exporting gold.
African Liberation Monument
A monument in Georgetown celebrating Guyana's solidarity with the struggle to liberate the African continent.
1823 Demerara Rebellion Monument
A monument commemorating the major slave rebellion of 1823, a pivotal moment in Guyana's history.
Non-Aligned Monument
A monument honoring the leaders of the Non-Aligned Movement, erected for a ministerial conference in 1972.
St. George's Cathedral
One of the tallest wooden churches in the world, which has dominated the Georgetown skyline since 1892.
Cenotaph Georgetown
A war memorial dedicated to Guyanese soldiers who lost their lives in the two World Wars.