Plaza de Toros de Santamaría Bogotá
A historic 1931 arena in Bogotá, now a dynamic venue for art, crafts, and food festivals, reflecting the city's cultural evolution.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Often hosts public events
Plaza de Toros de Santamaría Bogotá
Best Time
Often hosts public events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1931 arena in Bogotá, now a dynamic venue for art, crafts, and food festivals, reflecting the city's cultural evolution.
"This former bullfighting arena has now been converted to a public area to display art, local craftsmen, and some great food."
Confirm Access First
Verify if it's open to visitors; it's often closed for private events.
Check Event Schedules
See what art, food, or craft fairs are happening to maximize your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Arena Architecture
Exterior
Admire the iconic circular design of this 1931 arena, a significant piece of Bogotá's architectural heritage.
Cultural Event Hub
Interior (when open)
Experience vibrant art displays, local crafts, and diverse food stalls that now fill the space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Status
Beyond Bullfighting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Must-sees in Bogota?
Confirm Access First
Verify if it's open to visitors; it's often closed for private events.
Check Event Schedules
See what art, food, or craft fairs are happening to maximize your visit.
12 hours in Bogota
Qué lugares tengo que visitar sí o sí en Bogotá?
Combine with Nearby Museums
It's close to the Planetarium and National Museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Access First
Verify if it's open to visitors; it's often closed for private events.
Check Event Schedules
See what art, food, or craft fairs are happening to maximize your visit.
Combine with Nearby Museums
It's close to the Planetarium and National Museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors note the Plaza de Toros de Santamaría's unpredictable access, often finding it closed for private events. However, when open for cultural festivals, it's praised for its vibrant atmosphere, art, and food offerings, showcasing its modern role as a community space.
"We came to see it, but the lady who opened the door said we couldn’t come inside because of Covid, no visitations."
Ana Knezevic
"Google maps said it was open on 11/27 from 9-12. Only open to workers and special guests. What a pain! Seems to be the trend in Colombia."
Jacob Daniel Spring
"Plaza de Toros is close to the Planetarium and National Museum"
Larry Michael Lynch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Plaza de Toros de Santamaría is located in the heart of Bogotá. You can reach it via taxi or ride-sharing services. Public buses also serve the area, with stops near the National Museum and Planetarium, which are adjacent to the plaza.
Yes, several TransMilenio bus routes and local buses stop near the plaza, making it accessible via public transport. Check local route maps for the most convenient options.
For a short layover, a taxi or ride-sharing app is the quickest way to get to the Plaza de Toros de Santamaría and back to the airport, allowing you to maximize your time exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry requirements vary. While the exterior is always visible, access to the interior for events or exhibitions may require tickets. It's crucial to check if there are any public visiting hours or specific events scheduled.
The plaza's opening hours are inconsistent and often depend on whether there are events scheduled. It's frequently closed to the public for private functions or maintenance. Always confirm current access before visiting.
Generally, the plaza is not open for casual public visits outside of scheduled events. You can admire its architecture from the outside, but interior access is usually restricted.
If there's an event or exhibition, there might be an admission fee. However, for general public access (when available), it might be free or have a nominal charge. Checking event details is key.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
While historically a bullfighting arena, it now serves as a venue for art exhibitions, craft fairs, and food festivals. You can explore the circular structure and enjoy the cultural offerings.
No, bullfighting has been banned in Bogotá. The plaza has been repurposed for cultural events and public gatherings.
It's a historic architectural landmark built in 1931 and a symbol of Bogotá's past. It now represents the city's transition towards cultural and artistic expression.
Guided tours are not typically offered for casual visitors. Access is usually limited to event days. You can explore the exterior and surrounding areas independently.
The plaza is conveniently located near the Bogotá Planetarium and the National Museum of Colombia, making it easy to combine visits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, when events like craft fairs or festivals are held, you can find various food stalls offering local Colombian cuisine and international options.
Expect a diverse range of options, from traditional Colombian street food like arepas and empanadas to more contemporary dishes, depending on the specific event.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique circular architecture from various angles. If there's an event, the vibrant atmosphere, art installations, and crowds offer dynamic photo subjects.
Photography is generally allowed inside during events, but always check for any specific restrictions posted by organizers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to note that the plaza's historical context as a bullfighting arena might be a sensitive topic. When visiting during an event, focus on the current cultural offerings like art and local crafts. Always check the specific nature of any event to ensure it's suitable for your family's interests and age groups.
🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
For a deeper dive, consider visiting the nearby National Museum of Colombia and the Bogotá Planetarium, which are within walking distance. These institutions offer further insights into Colombian history, art, and science, complementing your visit to the plaza.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A New Chapter: From Arena to Arts Hub
This shift reflects Bogotá's evolving cultural landscape, moving away from traditional spectacles towards a more inclusive and artistic public sphere. The architecture itself, a striking example of 1931 design, provides a unique backdrop for these modern events. Experiencing the plaza during a festival offers a glimpse into the city's contemporary cultural pulse.
When planning a visit, it's essential to check local event listings. Unlike a typical museum with fixed hours, the plaza's accessibility is event-driven. This means its 'open' days are tied to specific cultural happenings, making it a dynamic and often surprising destination.
Navigating Access and Expectations
Therefore, confirming its operational status before heading out is crucial. This might involve checking the official website (if available), local event calendars, or even calling ahead. The plaza's proximity to other major attractions like the Planetarium and the National Museum means you can still have a productive day in the area even if the plaza itself is inaccessible.
When it is open for events, it offers a lively atmosphere with opportunities to engage with local artisans and sample Colombian cuisine. This duality—sometimes inaccessible, sometimes a bustling cultural hub—is a defining characteristic of the Plaza de Toros de Santamaría experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit