Lievano Building City Hall of Bogota Colombia

Palacio Liévano

Palacio Liévano Bogotá: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Palacio Liévano: Bogotá’s Historic City Hall

Palacio Liévano is a striking emblem of Bogotá’s historical evolution and civic identity. Situated on the west side of Plaza de Bolívar in the heart of La Candelaria, this French Renaissance Revival and neoclassical palace is not just the seat of Bogotá’s city government, but also a living testament to the city’s cultural and architectural aspirations. Designed by French architect Gastón Lelarge and completed in 1907, Palacio Liévano offers visitors an immersive journey through the city’s past, present, and ongoing civic life (Historia en los muros del Palacio Liévano; Semana).

This guide provides detailed information on Palacio Liévano’s history, architectural highlights, visiting hours, ticketing policies, accessibility, guided tours, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or traveler eager to explore Bogotá’s heritage, this resource will help you plan a rewarding visit (Visit Bogotá).

Eastern side of Plaza de Bolívar with Palacio Liévano in Bogotá

Main building of the Alcaldía de Bogotá in Colombia

Plaza de Bolívar in Bogotá with Palacio Liévano in the background

Historical Overview and Significance

Colonial Foundations and 19th-Century Transformations

The site of Palacio Liévano has been integral to Bogotá’s administration since the city’s founding in 1538. Originally the location of colonial residences and the first city council, it later became home to the Galerías Arrubla—the largest building in Bogotá in the mid-19th century, serving as both a commercial and civic hub. After the Galerías Arrubla were destroyed by a fire in 1900, the site was redeveloped into the present-day Palacio Liévano (Historia en los muros del Palacio Liévano).

Architectural Rebirth and Modernization

French architect Gastón Lelarge was commissioned to design the new palace, with construction completed in 1907. The building’s symmetrical layout, Mansard roofs, ornamental ironwork, and classical columns showcase Bogotá’s turn-of-the-century ambition and cosmopolitan style (Kiddle: Palacio Liévano).

In 1974, Palacio Liévano was designated as the city hall, and in 1984, it was declared a National Monument of Colombia, underscoring its historical and cultural significance (Semana).

Architectural Highlights

The palace is a notable example of French Renaissance Revival architecture in Colombia. Its façade, constructed from white stone, features symmetrical columns, balustrades, decorative reliefs, and elegant Mansard roofs. Thirty-two window openings per upper level add to the building’s harmony and rhythm (Bogotá Turismo).

Key architectural features include:

Façade: Ornate pilasters, cornices, and decorative balconies.
Mansard Roofs: Distinctive French-inspired design at each corner.
Central Patio: A traditional feature in Latin American civic buildings, providing natural light and ventilation.
Interior Rooms: The Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada room and mayor’s office are richly decorated and historically significant.
Ornamental Ironwork: Balconies and window grilles showcase skilled craftsmanship.
Statues and Plaques: The central patio features a bust of José Acevedo y Gómez, and the second floor contains 24 historical plaques commemorating key events.

Visiting Palacio Liévano: Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Visiting Hours

Main Office and Façade Viewing: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. The exterior can be admired from Plaza de Bolívar at any time.
Guided Tours: Public interior access is typically available on Fridays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM through scheduled guided tours. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and cover key public spaces and exhibition areas. Advance booking is recommended (Semana).

Tickets and Admission

Admission: Free for both exterior and interior guided tours, though special exhibitions may require tickets.
How to Book: Reserve spots for guided tours via official Bogotá tourism portals or at the visitor information center near Plaza de Bolívar.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Ramps and elevators are available, though some historic areas may have limited accessibility. Notify staff in advance for additional assistance.
Service Animals: Permitted.
Restrooms: Available for visitors during official events or tours.

Location and Transportation

Palacio Liévano is located in La Candelaria, the historic core of Bogotá, on the west side of Plaza de Bolívar.

By Public Transport: Easily accessible via TransMilenio (Museo del Oro and Las Aguas stations) and local bus routes.
Walking: La Candelaria is pedestrian-friendly, but be aware of uneven cobblestones.
By Car: Parking is limited; public transport is recommended.

Visitor Experience: What to See and Do

Admire the Façade: The building’s exterior is one of the plaza’s highlights, especially during early morning or late afternoon for photography.
Explore the Plaza de Bolívar: Surrounded by the National Capitol, the Supreme Court, and the Primatial Cathedral, this is Bogotá’s civic heart.
Attend Events: Palacio Liévano hosts civic ceremonies, cultural festivals, and public gatherings, particularly during holidays and citywide celebrations.
Historical Insights: Guided tours provide context on the palace’s importance, the evolution of Bogotá’s city government, and its architectural features.

Nearby Attractions

Within walking distance of Palacio Liévano, visitors can explore:

Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Colombia’s renowned pre-Columbian collection.
Botero Museum: Masterpieces by Fernando Botero and other international artists.
Casa de Nariño: The official residence of the President of Colombia.
Primatial Cathedral: Directly facing the palace on the plaza.
Teatro Colón: Bogotá’s national theater and neoclassical gem.
Silva Poetry House: Literary center honoring José Asunción Silva.

Tips for Visitors

Security: Plaza de Bolívar is well-patrolled, but always be vigilant against petty theft.
Best Times to Visit: Weekdays for smaller crowds; early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting.
Dress Code: Smart casual is recommended for interior events.
Photography: Allowed on the exterior and in public plaza areas. Interior photography may be restricted during certain events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Palacio Liévano’s visiting hours?
A: The building is open to the public primarily for guided tours on Fridays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The façade is always accessible.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, general entry and tours are free; special exhibitions may require tickets.

Q: Is Palacio Liévano wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, though some historic areas may have limited access. Notify staff in advance if you have specific needs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, typically on Fridays with advance booking through the official tourism website or visitor center.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the palace?
A: Photography is permitted in most public areas, but check event-specific rules for interior spaces.

Visual and Interactive Media Recommendations

Enhance your visit by viewing high-quality images of Palacio Liévano’s façade, interior spaces, and surrounding landmarks. For virtual tours, interactive maps, and more, consult the official Bogotá tourism website. Use descriptive alt tags such as “Palacio Liévano visiting hours” and “Bogotá historical sites” for optimized content.

Cultural Etiquette and Emergency Contacts

Etiquette: As an active government building, maintain respectful behavior, especially during official ceremonies or events.
Emergency Contacts:
- Police: 123
- Tourist Police: Present in Plaza de Bolívar
- Tourist Information: Available at Bogotá tourism office near the plaza

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

Palacio Liévano is more than an administrative building—it is a vibrant cultural and historical symbol at the nucleus of Bogotá’s civic, political, and social life. Its neoclassical and French Renaissance features, significant interior spaces, and commemorative installations offer a comprehensive window into Colombia’s past and present. Free admission, accessibility, and guided tours make it an inviting landmark for all travelers (Semana; Bogotá Turismo).

To make the most of your visit, stay updated with official resources for current visiting hours and special events. Leveraging tools like the Audiala mobile app can ensure interactive tours and real-time updates. After exploring Palacio Liévano, continue your journey through the historic streets, museums, and vibrant culture of La Candelaria (Historia en los muros del Palacio Liévano; Visit Bogotá).

Useful Links and Further Reading

For official updates, events, and guided tour reservations, consult the Official Bogotá Tourism Site.

Ready to explore Bogotá’s heritage? Download the Audiala app for curated city tours, real-time event updates, and exclusive cultural content. Follow us on social media for travel tips and the latest news on Colombia’s fascinating landmarks.