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National Pantheon of Venezuela
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Historical site
The National Pantheon of Venezuela in Caracas is the final resting place of the most significant heroes in Venezuelan history. The building was originally constructed on the ruins of the Holy Trinity Church, which had been destroyed by the 1812 earthquake. In 1874, President Antonio Guzmán Blanco decreed the transformation of the site into a national pantheon to house the remains of Simón Bolívar and other patriots. The architecture combines Neo-Gothic elements with monumental interiors decorated with paintings by Tito Salas, depicting crucial moments of the independence struggle. The building has been expanded several times, most recently with the construction of the modern Mausoleum of Simón Bolívar, which stands out with its striking white structure. The Pantheon is not merely a cemetery but a symbol of national identity and the country's republican heritage. It houses over 140 memorials and tombs of figures from politics, the military, and science.
- Location: Venezuela
- Top sights: Casa Nacional de las Letras "Andrés Bello" · Cuartel San Carlos · Mausoleo al Libertador
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 42 | 30 | 14 | 41 | 71 | 87 | 101 | 120 | 89 | 96 | 77 | 74 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The National Pantheon is a museum and tomb that is open to the public. Visitors can see the interior where Simón Bolívar lies buried.
Typical hours
The Pantheon is typically open Tuesday through Sunday during the day. Mondays it is usually closed; holidays may differ.
Photography
Photography inside is allowed without flash to protect artworks. Exterior photos are possible anytime and recommended.
Time needed
A visit takes about one to one and a half hours to see the halls and tombs. For a thorough tour, allow two hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Casa Natal de Bolívar. Plaza Bolívar and the Cathedral are also easily reachable on foot.
Getting there
The Pantheon is located in the historic center, reachable via Capitolio metro station. From there it is about a 10-minute walk.
Insider tip
Late morning visits are quieter. Watch for the changing of the guard ceremony, which occurs at fixed times.
Geography
Facts
- The building was officially declared a National Pantheon on March 27, 1874.
- Simón Bolívar's remains were transferred here on October 28, 1876.
- The interior houses monumental murals by the artist Tito Salas.
- It is located at the northern end of Avenida Panteón in Caracas.
- The new Mausoleum of Bolívar was inaugurated in 2013 next to the original building.
- Over 140 prominent Venezuelans are interred within the complex's walls.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town National Pantheon of Venezuela (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the National Pantheon of Venezuela?
It is the most significant national monument where the remains of important Venezuelan heroes rest.
What are the opening hours?
Typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, approximately from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entrance is mostly free as it is a national memorial site.
Where is the Pantheon located?
It is located in the historic center of Caracas, near Plaza Bolívar.
Can you take photos of the building?
Exterior photos are allowed, inside there are often strict rules out of respect for the memorial site.
National Pantheon of Venezuela: where is it located?
National Pantheon of Venezuela is located in Venezuela.
National Pantheon of Venezuela: what is there to see?
Highlights include Casa Nacional de las Letras "Andrés Bello", Cuartel San Carlos, Mausoleo al Libertador.
National Pantheon of Venezuela: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
National Pantheon of Venezuela: why is it worth visiting?
The National Pantheon of Venezuela in Caracas is the final resting place of the most significant heroes in Venezuelan history.
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History & landmarks
National Pantheon
The National Pantheon is one of the most significant architectural and historic monuments in Caracas.
Museum of Sacred Art
The museum houses a significant collection of religious art from the colonial period.
Municipal Palace of Caracas
A historic government building in Plaza Bolívar, housing the city administration of Caracas.
Carmelitas Post Office
A striking building in downtown Caracas, known for its elegant neoclassical facade.
Palace of the Academies
A magnificent neo-Gothic building that houses the national academies of Venezuela.
National Theater of Caracas
A beautiful historic theater known for its performances of zarzuela and operettas.
Lira Art Center
A contemporary cultural center providing space for various art forms and local exhibitions.
El Silencio Towers
Two iconic twin towers in the center of Caracas, symbolizing the city's 20th-century modernization.
More places
Caracas Cathedral
The oldest church in Caracas, which has survived many earthquakes and holds the tomb of Bolívar's parents.
Casa del Vínculo
A recently restored house in Caracas where Bolívar lived during the early years of his marriage.
Yellow House of Caracas
The historic yellow building was once a royal prison and later the presidential palace.
Birthplace of Simón Bolívar
This colonial house is the birthplace of the famous South American liberator Simón Bolívar.
Convent of San Francisco
A historic convent in Caracas where Simón Bolívar was formally proclaimed Liberator in 1813.
Mountain Barracks (Cuartel de la Montaña)
A striking military building that plays an important role in modern Venezuelan history.
Quinta de Anauco
This beautiful colonial estate now houses the Museum of Colonial Art in Caracas.
Casona Ibarra
A charming historic hacienda from the 18th century, located within the Central University grounds.