La Candelaria travel guide

The Plaza de Bolívar, marked out by the city’s founders (as Plaza Mayor), is at the heart of the city. Around the Plaza are the narrow streets and mansions of the Barrio La Candelaria, the historical and cultural heart of the city occupying the area of some 70 city blocks to the south of Avenida Jiménez de Quesada, north of Calle 6 and east of Carrera 10. Because the main commercial and residential focus of the city moved down the hill and to the north early on, much of the original colonial town remains. It is one of the best-preserved major historical centres in Latin America, and as such has attracted artists, writers and academics to fill the sector with theatres, libraries and universities, for which Colombia has a very high reputation in the Spanish-speaking world. There are some delightful sights, especially the colonial houses with their barred windows, carved doorways, red-tiled roofs and sheltering eaves. The local authorities are helping to preserve and renovate properties and the cobbled streets, a feature of Candelaria. Many of the best of Bogotá’s churches and colonial buildings are in this district. Some hotels are found in this part, more along the margins, for example Avenida Jiménez de Quesada. The streets are relatively uncrowded and safe, although care should be exercised after dark. West of Carrera 10 and south of Calle 6 is seedier and not recommended for pedestrians.

Most museums and tourist attraction are open Tuesday to Sunday around 0900-1700, but may be closed for a period in the middle of the day. Times are frequently changed. Entry is often free but may be a modest US$1 or so. Very little is open on Mondays. The best time to visit the churches is before or after Mass (not during). Mass times are 0700, 1200 and 1800.