Visit the Casa Museo Quinta de Bolívar to gain a glimpse into the life of one of the heroes that helped to bring Colombia its freedom from Spanish rule. Simón Bolívar, one of the most important generals in the Latin American wars of independence, used to spend his summers in this lovely manor during the early 19th century. Explore the storied country house, stroll around its beautiful grounds and enjoy the stunning hillside location.
The house, which dates back to the late 1600s, was presented to Simón Bolívar by the newly independent Colombian government in appreciation of his role in Colombia’s liberation from colonial Spain. Bolívar used the property as a summer residence for 10 years, leaving it around 1830. The house later came into use as a brewery, a hospital and a schoolhouse, but now it is open to the public as a museum dedicated to recreating the years of Bolívar’s residence.
Explore a number of well-appointed rooms, which have been carefully maintained with their original 19th-century decoration. In the master bedroom, you can see Bolívar’s original desk, sword and uniform. The house’s portraits of Bolívar and his lover, Manuela Sáenz, provoke the imagination to wonder about the private life of this celebrated public figure.
Admire the antique furniture and tableware in the elegant dining hall where Bolívar received his guests. Seek out the bedroom of José Palacios, Bolívar’s servant. Stop by the museum’s gallery, which is home to displays about the American liberators as well as various temporary exhibitions.
The Casa Museo Quinta de Bolívar is open every day of the week except Monday. English-speaking tours are available on Wednesdays. Check the museum’s website for information about opening times and entrance fees. The site is easily accessible by public transport or by taking a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus. It is also just 30 minutes’ walk from Plaza de Bolívar.
