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Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón: A Colonial Gem

Explore the Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón in Tunja, a unique 16th-century colonial mansion and historical landmark.

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The Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón in Tunja is a remarkably preserved 16th-century colonial mansion. Built by the city's founder, Gonzalo Suárez Rendón, it stands as the only remaining founder's house in Latin America, offering a glimpse into the life of a Spanish conquistador and the early days of Tunja.

A brief summary to Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón

  • Cra. 9 #1956, Tunja, Centro Histórico, Boyaca, 150001, CO
  • +5787423272
  • Tuesday 9 am-11 am
  • Wednesday 9 am-11 am
  • Thursday 9 am-11 am
  • Friday 9 am-11 am
  • Saturday 9 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a less crowded experience and to fully appreciate the museum's exhibits.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the house and its artwork.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Plaza Bolívar and the historic center of Tunja.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Plaza Bolívar, head east on Calle 18 toward Carrera 9. Turn left onto Carrera 9 and walk north for about 10 minutes. The Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón will be on your right at Cra. 9 #1956. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Tunja bus terminal, take a local bus heading towards the city center. Ask the driver to drop you off at Plaza Bolívar. From there, follow the walking directions to reach Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately 2,100 COP.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tunja. Simply tell the driver to take you to Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón at Cra. 9 #1956. The fare will be approximately 4,200 COP as a starting price, and most trips within the city won't cost more than 4,000 COP.

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Discover more about Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón

The Casa del Fundador Gonzalo Suárez Rendón is a significant historical and architectural landmark in Tunja, Colombia. Constructed starting in 1540, the house was built by Gonzalo Suárez Rendón, the founder of Tunja, and is the only remaining founder's house in Latin America. Declared a monument in 1959 and a museum in 1965, it provides a unique window into the 16th-century colonial life. The house is located on the eastern side of Plaza Bolívar, Tunja's central square, historically known as Plaza Suárez Rendón. The architecture reflects Spanish colonial style, featuring a central courtyard, enclosed staircases, and a main hall adorned with stunning ceiling paintings. These Mannerist-style mural paintings depict exotic fauna and are among the house's most notable features. Inside, visitors can explore various rooms showcasing colonial-era furniture, artifacts, and artwork. Highlights include the perfectly preserved bedroom of Gonzalo Suárez Rendón, lances-clad knights, and coats of arms representing León, Castile, Málaga, King Charles I of Spain, and Philip II. The museum also displays canvases of the thirteen presidents from Boyacá and the libertarian deeds of the Battle of Boyacá. The Casa del Fundador is not only a museum but also a cultural center, hosting the Secretary of Culture and Tourism of the Mayor's Office and the Boyacense Academy of History.

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