Overview
In 2000, Fernando Botero — Colombia's most famous living artist — donated 208 works to the Banco de la República: 123 of his own paintings and sculptures plus 85 pieces from his private collection by international masters including Picasso, Monet, Renoir, Dalí, and Giacometti. Housed in a restored colonial mansion in La Candelaria, the museum displays Botero's signature inflated figures alongside world-class European art, all entirely free of charge. It is one of the most generous cultural gifts in Latin American history.
Collections Highlights
Botero's "Mona Lisa" — His rotund reinterpretation of da Vinci's masterpiece is a crowd favorite. Bronze sculptures — Voluptuous figures in the museum's courtyard garden. International collection — Monet water lilies, Picasso sketches, and Dalí prints in the same building. Colonial architecture — The restored 17th-century mansion is a work of art itself
Guided Tours
Expert guides at Botero Museum offer specialized knowledge that transforms a casual visit into an educational experience. Tours range from general highlights to thematic deep dives, with guides adapting their commentary to visitor interests and expertise levels.
When to Visit
Monday, Wednesday–Saturday: 9 AM – 7 PM. Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM. Closed: Tuesdays. Best: Wednesday–Friday mornings for quiet, contemplative visits. Avoid: Weekend afternoons when school groups and families fill the galleries
Admission and Costs
Admission: Free — always. Guided museum tour: COP 60,000–120,000 ($15–30) per person. Private art-focused guide: COP 200,000–350,000 ($50–85) covering Botero + Gold Museum. Combined La Candelaria + museums tour: COP 150,000–250,000 ($37–60)
Tips for Visitors
Combine with the Gold Museum: The Gold Museum is a 5-minute walk — do both in one morning. A guide adds depth: Botero's political commentary is subtle; a guide reveals meaning behind the roundness. Photography: Allowed without flash — the courtyard offers the best natural light. Small and focused: Unlike sprawling art museums, this one takes 45–90 minutes — perfect after heavier sites. Gift shop: High-quality Botero prints and books at reasonable prices