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Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas: A Colonial Treasure

Explore a 16th-century mansion showcasing colonial art and Mudéjar architecture in the heart of Tunja's historic district.

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Step back in time at the Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas, a beautifully preserved 16th-century house in Tunja, Colombia. This historic home, once belonging to a royal scribe, showcases stunning Mudéjar-Andalusian architecture and houses a collection of colonial art and artifacts.

A brief summary to Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas

  • Tuesday 9 am-11:30 am
  • Wednesday 9 am-11:30 am
  • Thursday 9 am-11:30 am
  • Friday 9 am-11:30 am
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Photography rules may vary; check with your guide upon arrival. Foreigners may be allowed to take photos while nationals are not.
  • Take your time to admire the ceiling frescos in the main rooms; they are a highlight of the museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas is located in the Centro Histórico of Tunja, easily accessible on foot from many points in the city center. From the Plaza de Bolívar, walk two blocks east on Calle 20. The museum will be on your right, at Cl. 20 #8-52. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses (minibuses) circulate throughout Tunja. Many routes pass near the Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas. Look for buses that travel along Carrera 8 or Calle 20 in the city center. A typical fare for a short trip is approximately 2,100 COP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tunja. A short taxi ride from the Terminal de Tunja or another point in the city center to the Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas will typically cost between 4,200 and 8,000 COP, including the starting fare.

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Discover more about Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas

The Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas, located in the heart of Tunja, Boyacá, is a captivating heritage museum that offers a glimpse into Colombia's colonial past. Built in the late 16th century, this mansion was home to Don Juan de Vargas, a scribe who served the Spanish Crown. The house itself is a masterpiece of Mudéjar-Andalusian architecture, blending Spanish and Moorish influences. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the structure, including the arcaded courtyard with its Tuscan columns, the stone columns and Corinthian capitals on the second floor, and the Andalusian-style patio. Inside, the museum displays a collection of art and objects from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, including furniture, ceramics, and paintings. The highlight for many visitors is the stunning mural paintings on the ceilings of the main rooms, showcasing Mannerist figures of gods and mythological scenes. These murals are considered some of the best examples of their kind in the Americas. A visit to the Casa del Escribano Don Juan de Vargas provides insight into the life and times of a prominent figure in colonial society and offers a fascinating look at the architectural and artistic heritage of Tunja.

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