Claustro de San Agustín Casa de la Cultura
A historic Augustinian cloister transformed into a cultural hub, showcasing impactful art and photography on Colombia's conflict.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Claustro de San Agustín Casa de la Cultura
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Augustinian cloister transformed into a cultural hub, showcasing impactful art and photography on Colombia's conflict.
"A must-see for understanding Colombia's history and resilience, offering profound reflection."
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy this incredible cultural experience without any cost. A true gem in Bogotá!
Prepare for Emotion
The exhibits, especially the conflict photography, are powerful and can be emotionally heavy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jesus Abad Colorado's Photography
Upstairs exhibition
A deeply touching photo documentation of Colombia's war and conflict, showcasing devastation and resilience.
Interior Courtyard
Central patio
A quaint, rustic garden courtyard offering a peaceful respite amidst the impactful exhibits.
Temporary Art Exhibits
Various galleries
Discover diverse and often thought-provoking temporary art installations, like the life-sized paper trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History and Art
Understand the Context
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy this incredible cultural experience without any cost. A true gem in Bogotá!
Prepare for Emotion
The exhibits, especially the conflict photography, are powerful and can be emotionally heavy.
Reflect on the Narrative
Consider the university's perspective in the exhibits; it's a valuable part of understanding the context.
Quiet Courtyard Break
Take a moment to relax in the charming interior courtyard after absorbing the exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy this incredible cultural experience without any cost. A true gem in Bogotá!
Prepare for Emotion
The exhibits, especially the conflict photography, are powerful and can be emotionally heavy.
Reflect on the Narrative
Consider the university's perspective in the exhibits; it's a valuable part of understanding the context.
Quiet Courtyard Break
Take a moment to relax in the charming interior courtyard after absorbing the exhibits.
Check for Documentaries
Sometimes they screen documentaries, like one on Ayahuasca, adding another layer to the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Claustro de San Agustín for its free admission and deeply moving exhibitions, particularly the photography documenting Colombia's conflict. The tranquil courtyard offers a peaceful contrast to the impactful displays. Some note a potential bias in the university-presented narratives, but overall, it's considered a highly recommended and essential cultural experience.
"Beautiful place. Very quiet, well kept, clean bathrooms and at the entrance we had some pastelitos and café at Pâtisserie Francaise. You will have to opportunity to watch a documentary about Ayahuasca o yagé and then upstair there is a very touching exposition of Jesus Abad Colorado and his photo documentation of a very hurtful situation with the war among Colombian citizens. If you happens to be in Bogotá, don't miss this opportunity. The entrance is free."
Valentina Mastropasqua
"A museum run by the National University in a former cloister that belonged to the Augustinian Order. The Museum has an amazing exhibit on the civil conflicts that have plagued Colombia for the last century. While emotionally heavy, it is a must-see for those who want to learn more about the history of the country. However, do take the exhibit with a grain of salt, as the university that runs it is famous for its leftist leanings and the author of the writing lets his opinion bleed into what he wrote at the end. Still, a wonderful museum never the less."
S Fernandez
"It’s a moving place for our memory as a country. Not only the violence and war history, but the courage and hope of our people. A great opportunity to avoid the oblivion. Highly recommended."
Jose Ricardo Carvajal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Claustro de San Agustín is located within the National University of Colombia campus in Bogotá. You can reach the campus via various TransMilenio bus routes or taxis. It's advisable to check specific routes based on your starting point in the city.
Parking within the National University campus might be limited or restricted. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach the university and then walk to the cloister.
The campus is quite large. Once inside, follow signs for the 'Claustro de San Agustín' or ask for directions at information points. Maps of the campus are often available.
The Claustro is situated within the grounds of the National University of Colombia, a prominent institution in Bogotá.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Didi can drop you off at designated points within the National University campus, from where you can proceed to the cloister.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance to the Claustro de San Agustín Casa de la Cultura is free. This makes it a highly accessible cultural attraction for all visitors.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official National University cultural programming or local listings before your visit. Generally, it's open during weekdays and sometimes Saturdays.
No, advance booking is not required as the admission is free. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
As it's part of a university campus, standard security checks might be in place. Be respectful of the academic environment.
Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more contemplative experience, especially with the sensitive exhibits.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a mix of historical architecture, temporary art installations, and a significant focus on photography documenting Colombia's civil conflict. +1
The exhibits, particularly the photography by Jesus Abad Colorado, are emotionally impactful and deal with sensitive themes of war and violence. It may not be suitable for very young children. +1
Photography policies can vary for temporary exhibits. It's best to look for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially without flash.
The atmosphere is generally quiet and reflective, especially in the exhibition spaces. The interior courtyard offers a peaceful, serene environment.
Information on guided tours is not widely advertised, but it's worth inquiring at the information desk upon arrival, especially if you're interested in a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While the cloister itself might not have extensive dining options, the National University campus has cafeterias and eateries. There are also cafes nearby, like the one mentioned offering pastelitos and coffee.
University cafeterias typically offer affordable meals, snacks, and beverages catering to students.
Yes, some reviews mention cafes near the entrance offering coffee and pastries, providing a nice break.
It's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas, if available, and to be mindful of the museum's rules.
Food on university campuses is usually budget-friendly, with options ranging from a few thousand Colombian pesos for snacks to more for full meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior courtyard with its rustic garden is a picturesque spot. The architectural details of the cloister itself also offer great photographic opportunities.
Photography rules for art exhibits vary. Always check for signs or ask staff. Flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork.
Be mindful of the sensitive nature of some exhibits; avoid intrusive photography. Respect any 'no photo' signs.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for interior shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the courtyard and architectural elements.
The courtyard can offer a unique backdrop for portraits, but be respectful of other visitors and the contemplative nature of the space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 History Buffs & Students
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Augustinian Order
This historical foundation is crucial for understanding the context of the art and exhibits housed within. The juxtaposition of religious history with contemporary artistic expression creates a unique dialogue. Visitors can appreciate the architectural details – the arches, the stonework, and the layout – that have been preserved, offering a tangible connection to the cloister's origins. It's a place where history is not just read about but felt through its physical presence.
Art as a Mirror to Conflict
These exhibitions serve as a vital educational tool, prompting reflection and dialogue about the nation's past and its ongoing journey towards peace. While the narratives presented are often emotionally charged and may reflect a particular perspective from the National University, their importance in fostering understanding and preventing oblivion cannot be overstated. The cloister provides a dedicated space for confronting these difficult truths, making it a significant cultural and historical site.
Experiencing the Tranquil Courtyard
Many visitors find solace in this central patio, using it as a moment to decompress after engaging with the more intense displays. The contrast between the contemplative quiet of the courtyard and the impactful stories told within the galleries is a key part of the overall experience. It’s a reminder of the enduring beauty and hope that can coexist with hardship, offering a balanced perspective on the human experience depicted within the cloister.
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