Hi there! I’m Nicholas, an American living in Colombia, and I’m here to share with you some fascinating insights about Bogotá’s iconic statues and the intriguing stories behind them.
Antonio Nariño
A figure of independence, Antonio Nariño’s statue, crafted by the French sculptor León Greber, stands as a testament to his bravery. Located at Carrera 7ª between streets 8ª and 9ª, the statue’s pose harks back to a momentous day in Nariño’s life when he faced a hostile crowd in Pasto, boldly presenting himself as a symbol of courage.
Antonio José de Sucre and José María Córdoba: The Ayacucho Monument
Adjacent to the Palacio Nariño at Carrera 7ª between streets 7ª and 8ª, this monument celebrates the valiant efforts of Sucre and Córdoba in the battle of Ayacucho, pivotal in the fight for independence.
Camilo Torres
Remembered as “The Voice of Revolution,” Camilo Torres’ statue at Carrera 7ª with street 10, in the patio of the old Colegio de San Bartolomé, depicts him in a lawyer’s attire from the mid-18th century, a nod to his role in drafting the first written protest against the Spanish Government.
Francisco de Paula Santander
In the Parque de Santander, the statue by Italian sculptor Pietro Costa honors Santander, dressed as a military figure, symbolizing his contributions to law and finance post-independence. Streets 15 and 16 with Carreras 7ª and 6ª.
Francisco José de Caldas
A tribute to one of the era’s great scholars, this statue at Carrera 7ª with street 20, created by Raul Carlos Verlet, shows Caldas in a reflective pose, surrounded by his research instruments.
Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada
Located at Plazoleta del Rosario, street 14 with Carrera 6ª, this bronze statue by Spanish sculptor Juan de Avalos represents the founder of Santa Fe de Bogotá, adorned in his soldier’s attire.
Manuel Murillo Toro
This bronze statue at Carrera 8ª between streets 12 and 13 celebrates Murillo Toro, a journalist and two-time President, standing proudly beside a printing press and newspaper.
Miguel Antonio Caro
Caro, a government leader, philologist, and poet, is immortalized in his statue at the Colombian Academy of Language, symbolizing his significant contributions to Colombian literature. Carrera 3ªA with street 17.
Policarpa Salavarrieta
“La Pola” is commemorated at Carrera 3ª with street 17, depicted in the dignified pose she chose for her execution, a lasting symbol of her espionage contributions during the independence struggle.
Rafael Nuñez
Nuñez, the composer of the National Anthem’s lyrics, is honored in bronze at the south patio of the National Capitol, clutching the distinguished precept of the 1886 Constitution.
Rufino José Cuervo
Located in the Plazuela de los Derechos Humanos, Cuervo’s statue by Raul Carlos Verlet shows him seated, book and pen in hand, a tribute to his linguistic prowess and literary contributions.
Simón Bolívar
The great Liberator’s statue, by Italian sculptor Pietro Tenerani, is a majestic sight at Plaza de Bolívar, exuding military grandeur and authority. Carreras 7ª and 8ª with streets 10 and 11.
Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera
A key figure in Colombia’s independence, Mosquera’s statue near the Capitol National is a reminder of his pivotal role in the nation’s history.
The Mono de la Pila
At the heart of Bogotá’s history lies “El Mono de la Pila,” a fountain that has served as a central gathering point for the city’s inhabitants for centuries. Its nickname, originating from a local expression, reflects the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Thanks for joining me on this exploration of Bogotá’s storied statues! Keep following for more exciting travels and discoveries in Colombia.