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La Candelaria…. The Beauty, History, Heart of Bogota

February 6, 2020 /


     Beautiful old colonial buildings, in traditional colors, narrow cobblestone streets along with cool restaurants and shops, are just a few of the things that make La Candelaria one of the most charming of spots in the city of Bogota. Founded in 1538 it’s officially the first neighborhood of the city’. Steeped in history this wonderful neighborhood gives visitors a glimpse of colonial life in Bogota. While the entire neighborhood is full of unique architecture and interesting things to do, I want to tell you about my top 10  things to see on your next visit to this fabulous place. 

  1. Plaza de Bolivar

This immense open area in the heart of La Candelaria is probably the best place to start a tour. In 1539 the first cathedral was built on the land that would someday be Plaza de Bolivar. The history of this area goes back even further than that. It was once part of the Musica people, the indigenous people of the area but today in the bustling metropolis of Bogota it’s truly the center of everything. The plaza is flanked on all sides by very distinguished neighbors. The Palace of Justice, City Hall, the National Capital and the beautiful Primary Cathedral of Bogota. The Plaza often hosts vendors and performers. You can buy corn from local women so that you can feed the pigeons. While the calm of the morning is a way to have a complete view of the Plaza in the afternoon and early evening will provide entertainment and a more lively crowd. 

  1. Museo de Oro

Museum of Gold… while the name evokes visions of Eldorado like treasure its true riches lie in the history and culture this museum shares with its visitors. The museum covers the 7 different indigenous cultures that makeup Colombia and the unique and rich heritage each has. While many of the artifacts displayed are of course gold and exquisitely beautiful,  it was mostly just because it was the available material at the time. The real richness of this museum lies in the knowledge that you will gain from learning about these fascinating and magnificent cultures and people. If you do nothing else during your trip make sure you visit here. 

  1. Colombian Food

Colombia has a very unique and varied landscape and cuisine. The rich and earthy flavors make up a menu that warms the body and soul. The weather in Bogota leans towards cool and rainy so the hearty soups and starchy meals fill you up and keep you satisfied all day. The restaurants in the Candelaria area serve everything from Italian to Asian but if you look for them you will find true Colombian food. Mama Lupe and Restaurante Fulanitos were two of my favorites and the prices can’t be beaten for a full authentic Colombian meal. Try them out and let me know what you think. Just an FYI In tomorrow’s blog I will take you along with me to an authentic Colombian cooking class… don’t miss it. 

  1. Plazza del Chorro de Quevedo

Thought to be the first neighborhood of Bogota this area is a constantly bustling with activity. You’ll notice the large art installation of 12 windows on one side of the plaza. It represents the first 12 houses of Bogota. This open plaza plays host to musicians and performers and is a fun and exciting place to visit. The cute stores and restaurants on the tiny streets off the plaza are a perfect place to stroll and meets some of the locals and take in the culture.

  1. Take a bike tour

Bogota is a city of bikes and there is probably no better way to see the area of Candelaria than from the seat of a bike. The city has well-developed bike lanes and even blocks off part of the city from traffic on Sundays. This is called Ciclovia, it started in December of 1974. There are several companies that offer bike tours. Your hostel or hotel should have a list of names of local tour operators or you can check on Airbnb experiences or Viator, a clearinghouse for local tours. 

  1. Street Art, Grafitti

Walking down a city street in a strange country the sights and sounds can be amazing. In la Candelaria, the brightly colored buildings and cobblestone streets are only made more beautiful by the artwork that adorns many of the walls These pictures are mostly of indigenous people and they tell wonderful stories of their lives in Colombia. Bogota is a graffiti friendly city and  La Candelaria is home to both local and international artists who display their work for the world to see. There are several tours offered to explain the history and art of the area one of the most popular can be found on Airbnb experiences. 

  1. Coffee and Cocoa

A distinctly Colombian thing to do is to drink and hot cup of delicious coffee or cocoa in one of the many small shops all over the district. Colombia is a country known for coffee so where else to find the best cup than here. Cocoa is also grown here and they have a very unique way of serving this delicious hot drink. The cocoa is mixed with beans and spices, while it may not sound appetizing trust me its better than any regular old cocoa. 

  1. Museo Bottero

Fernando Bottero is one of Colombia’s most famous artists. In the year 2000, he donated his own work and many other pieces to the Bank of Colombia. These items were placed in the museum that is open free to the public every day but Tuesday. His unique larger proportion view makes for whimsically beautiful art. The combination of Botteros work and the many other great artists you can see, along with the low price of FREE makes this a definite must-do while in Bogota.

  1. Cathedrals

Colombia is primarily a Catholic nation and Bogota is no different. There are 10 primary churches in the district and all of them are gorgeous and historically significant. The most prominent is the Cathedral Prima at the Plaza Bolivar. The most unique would be the Nuestra Senora del Carmen. Its red and white striped facade houses a beautiful sanctuary with its baroque artwork and unique color choices make it one of the most unusual churches I have ever seen.

  1. Authentic Crafts

Colombia is a country of skilled artisans and many of their crafts can be found in Bogota. Local weavers use many different materials, hemp, wool, and alpaca to name a few. Paintings and charcoal drawings can be bought in open-air markets as well as small shops. Wood carvings and stonework are also popular items. Make sure that when you are buying items that they are made in Colombia. These beautiful items will be a reminder of your wonderful time in the city. 

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