Overview:

is an area located in the city of Tunja in the Boyaca region of Colombia. It is a public square honoring the memory of national hero and liberator Simón Bolivar. It features a monument of this influential person, flanked by statues of other historical figures, such as Francisco de Paula Santander. The area also serves as a focal point of the city, and it sometimes hosts public events. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Colombia
Prominent Features:

1. Statue of Simon Bolivar: The dominating figure of this plaza is the grand statue of Simón Bolívar, the Venezuelan revolutionary leader and author of much of the region’s independence from Spain. This monument to patriotic pride towers above the rest of the plaza, standing at nearly 30 feet in height. Bolívar’s uniform and determined stance have come to symbolize the liberated spirit of the country. 2. Catedral de Tunja: The Golden Cathedral just off the plaza is one of the hallmarks of colonial-era Tunja. Intricate and ornate, the church is among the oldest in Colombia, with construction completed in 1600. Lining the walls of Catedral de Tunja are beautiful works of art from famed Colombian painter Alejandro Obregon. 3. Colonial Buildings: The Plaza de Bolivar is surrounded by several gorgeous 16th and 17th century buildings. This includes the impressive Palacio de Infantas, the University of Tunja, and the Colonial Museum, which are all impressive works of Spanish-style architecture. 4. Town Hall: Another notable building situated around the plaza is the Town Hall of Tunja, whose light blue facade adorned with pink trim makes it a standout among the other colonial buildings. In the centre of the building stands a striking clock tower. 5. Entertainment & Shopping: There is plenty to do at the Plaza de Bolivar, with a range of shops, restaurants, street performers and special entertainment such as animal trainers and recreation spots for kids. This national monument of Colombia portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The city of Tunja, Colombia, is home to one of the oldest public squares in South America: Plaza de Bolivar. The plaza was originally constructed in 1540 by the Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, who had been sent to the area by King Charles I of Spain to conquer and pacify the region. The plaza, originally known as Plaza Mayor, quickly became the epicenter of colonial life for Tunja, as well as the center of government within the region. Over the centuries, Plaza de Bolivar saw many improvements made to its landscape, as well as expansion of its usage that included religious processions and other public events. The plaza gained its current name in 1955, when the city of Tunja decided to honor Simon Bolivar—one of the most important figures in South American history—by renaming the plaza in his honor. Today, Plaza de Bolivar is one of the most visited spots in Tunja. It is a popular space for both locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the trees, fountains, memorials, museums, and historic colonial buildings that crowd the plaza. Furthermore, in 2009, the plaza underwent significant renovation that included updating the cobblestone surface with granite pavers and the addition of lighting and benches. With these improvements, Plaza de Bolivar has been made fit for a public square of its grandeur. You must visit one of these historical places in Colombia on your Colombia tour

Interesting facts:

1. Plaza de Bolivar-Tunja, located in Tunja, Colombia, is the most important Colombian historical square and is also known as the ‘Embodiment of the Republican Ideal.’ 2. The plaza is named after the leader Simon Bolivar who declared independence from Spain in 1819. 3. The plaza is a place of political, social, and spiritual importance. Every August 7th, on the occasion of the Battle of Boyaca, an Independence Day parade is held here. 4. Plaza de Bolivar-Tunja is also home to some of the oldest buildings in the city. These include the Town Hall and the Governor’s Palace. 5. The Bolivar-Tunja Plaza is surrounded by trees, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation. 6. The plaza is the starting point of the Quebrada de La Buitrera tour, which is a stunning and unique natural attraction in Tunja. Visit one of the famous monuments of Colombia with your friends and family.