- Address: Cra. 7, Bogotá, Colombia
- Phone: +57 1 3822800
- Website: presidencia.gov.co
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 8: 00-17: 00
- Architectural style: neoclassical architecture
Casa de Nariño is the official residence of the President of Colombia , located in its capital, Bogotá . A residence was built on the site where Antonio Nariño, a politician and fighter for Colombian independence, was born. It was in honor of him that the palace was named.
Historical reference
Casa de Nariño was built for two years - from 1906 to 1908, under the projects of the French architect Gaston Lelarg and Juliano Lombana. In 1970, the palace and structures near it were reconstructed by the architect Fernando Alsina. In 1979, the Casa de Nariño again became the operating abode of the President of the country. In December of the same year, the renewed facade of the palace was shown on television.
At the moment the building is still a presidential residence, however some of its halls are accessible for tourist excursions .
Architecture and interior decoration Casa de Nariño
The palace is built in neoclassical style, which is inherent in the appeal to classical and antique stylistics.
On the north side of the building there is an armory square, where official events take place, such as a meeting of foreign guests. Also on the square every day there is a solemn change of the palace guard. In the most prominent place stands the sculpture of Antonio Nariño, made in 1910 and planted here only in 1980.
Nearby is the National Observatory, which is the oldest in America. Within its walls conspiracies were built for the liberation of Colombia and gaining independence. At the moment, the observatory is part of the national university.
If we talk about the most noteworthy halls of the palace, it is worth noting the following:
- Flag hall - located on the ground floor, it can see the flags of Cartagena , Spain, Cundinamarca, etc .;
- Salon Louis XV - here is an interesting collection of paintings by President Rafael Reyes, as well as a very remarkable chandelier of Murano glass and bronze.
- Gallery - in it you can find a collection of portraits of all Colombian presidents, the most beautiful sculpture of a Roman god dating from the second century, marble busts of presidents, exquisite French tapestries and paintings;
- The blue hall is the main dining room, which is decorated with Chinese vases and images of Colombia's nature ;
- The hall of Bolivar is a solemn hall, executed in Empire style. What is noteworthy, it is the clock of the XIX century, which are still in perfect working order.
Help for the tourist
The Casa de Nariño is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm. On weekends the palace is closed. It is located in the central part of the city, so that it is easy to get there by almost any public transport or by car. Not far from Casa de Nariño is the National Museum of Colombia , which can also be interesting to visit.