National Museum of Columbia

Wander around the cells of a former prison to discover centuries-old artifacts that provide a glimpse into Colombian culture and history.

A visit to the National Museum of Colombia takes you on a journey through the country’s fascinating history and culture. Discover everything from pre-Hispanic archaeological findings and colonial era artifacts to national and international art. Founded in 1823, it is Colombia’s oldest museum and has a collection of more than 20,000 objects.

The museum building once served as a prison and several of the exhibition galleries are housed within former cells. The 17 permanent exhibitions are arranged chronologically across three floors, from pre-Hispanic times to the present. Most explanations are in Spanish, but you’ll find brief English information sheets in the lobby on each floor.

Explore the diversity of Colombia’s pre-Hispanic societies. Learn about their funeral and burial rituals, and check out a vast collection of elaborate pre-Hispanic gold as well as indigenous jewelry, pottery and tools. On the second floor, see paintings of Spanish rulers and liberators. Look for important figures from Colombia’s early years of independence in the portrait gallery.

On the third floor, discover artworks dating from the colonial era to today. Don’t miss the collection of works by national masters such as Fernando Botero, Alejandro Obregón and Guillermo Wiedemann. Tour the temporary exhibitions, which showcase Colombian culture and international art. On certain days, you can watch music and dance performances.

Located just north of downtown Bogotá, the National Museum of Colombia is easily accessible by public transportation. A hop-on, hop-off tourist bus stops close to the museum’s entrance. If arriving by car, you’ll find metered car parks nearby. You might want to combine your visit with a tour of the Planetarium of Bogotá or Torre Colpatria, which offers sweeping views of the city.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission to all permanent exhibitions is free. Free guided tours in English take place on Wednesdays. Check the museum’s official website for tour information, temporary exhibition fees, and details of music and dance events. Allow up to three hours to see all of the exhibits.