Universidad de Caldas

The bull-ring (Av Centenario) built around 1950, is an impressive copy of the traditional Moorish style, based on the one in Córdoba, Spain. It holds 20,000 people. Bullfights take place in late January, early Febuary, tickets US$8-27 depending on whether they are in sol or sombra. There are also fights in June and July with young bulls with no kills. The University of Manizales (off Cra 23 at C 40) is housed in a fine building (originally the railway station) of considerable historic interest. Universidad de Caldas (C 65 No 26-10, Mon-Fri 0800-1200, 1400-1800 (take a ‘Fátima’ bus to the University)) has a natural history museum with a good selection of butterflies, moths and birds. The Centro de Museos (Cra 23, No 58-65, T8851374, Mon-Fri, 0800-1200, 1400-1600) also part of Caldas University, has an art gallery and exhibitions on geology and archaeology. The Teatro de los Fundadores (Cra 23/C 33) at the eastern entrance to the city centre is a good example of local architecture. This is well worth a visit with some fine murals and metal sculptures in the foyer and upper floors, including works by Guillermo Botero .