Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)

The Gold Museum in Bogota is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in pre-Hispanic history and culture. Located in the heart of the city, this museum boasts an extraordinary collection of finely crafted pre-Hispanic objects, showcasing the goldsmithing skills of Colombia’s indigenous peoples. With over 34,000 pieces of gold, ceramics, and other materials, the Gold Museum is a treasure trove of cultural heritage.

History

The Gold Museum was created in 1939 by the Bank of the Republic of Colombia following the acquisition of the Poporo Quimbaya, an invaluable gold vase dating from 300 B.C. Since then, the collection has grown significantly, with the museum now housing nearly 60,000 pieces. The museum reopened in 2008 after a major renovation, offering a more modern and educational museography. It is part of the Cultural Network of the Banco de la República, dedicated to preserving and showcasing Colombia’s archaeological legacy.

How to Get There

The Gold Museum is located at Carrera 6 #15-82 in Parque Santander, Bogota’s historic center. It is easily accessible by public transportation:

• Transmilenio Station: “”Museo del Oro,”” 50 meters from the museum entrance.
• From Plaza Bolivar: A 10-minute walk.
• From Parque de los periodistas: A 3-minute walk.
• From Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo: A 10-minute walk.
• From Botero Museum: A 10-minute walk.

Attractions

The museum features several exhibits that are not to be missed:

• Poporo Quimbaya: A gold vase used for religious rites, dating back to 300 B.C.
• Muisca Raft: A gold figure depicting the ritual that brought about the legend of El Dorado.
• Salon Doré: A room filled with 12,000 gold objects, showcasing the craftsmanship of pre-Hispanic goldsmiths.
• El trabajo de los metales: An exhibit describing the techniques used to extract and manufacture gold in pre-Columbian times.
• La gente y el oro en la Colombia prehispánica: A room contextualizing the role of gold in the political and religious organization of pre-Columbian civilizations.
• Cosmología y simbolismo: An exhibit looking at mystical themes and the cosmology of different ancient civilizations.

Ticket Information

Ticket prices and admission policies are as follows:

• Tuesday to Saturday: COP $4,000 per person.
• Sunday: Free entry for all.
• Monday: Closed.
• Free Admission: For children under 12, adults over 60, indigenous peoples, school groups, and police officers.

Tips for Visiting

Here are some tips to make your visit more enjoyable:

• Plan Your Visit: The museum is busiest on Sundays, so it’s best to visit on weekdays.
• Audio Guides: Available in Spanish, English, French, and Portuguese for COP $8,000.
• Free Tours: Available on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 AM and 4 PM.
• Understand the Context: The descriptions and exhibits provide a wealth of information, but taking a guided tour can enhance your experience.
• Appreciate the Details: The museum’s scenography is designed to highlight the beauty and craftsmanship of the pre-Hispanic objects, so take time to admire the intricate details.

The Gold Museum in Bogota is an unforgettable experience that offers a deep dive into Colombia’s rich cultural heritage. With its stunning collection and well-designed exhibits, it is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city.