Bogota Facts

Bogotá is a city of contrasts. From its founding in 1538 until today, it has been growing steadily and shaping its identity. Bogotá was a typical colonial city in the beginning, but around the turn of the 20th Century, other European tendencies began to replace the dominant Spanish influence. France's influence is evident in many of the palaces built during this period. Residential areas show English influence in houses built during the mid-20th Century. And finally, one can feel the United States' influence in the new skyscrapers and huge shopping centers built toward the end of the 20th Century. The best way to experience this vast variety of architectures is by visiting Bogota's distinct districts,...

...The constant rain, chilliness, and ominous pine-forest mountains make London seem downright sunny. But give Bogotá time and you will discover a sophisticated city of sky scrapers, glitzy upscale shopping centers, restaurants to satisfy even the most discerning palettes, and a nightlife that will leave you needing a vacation from your vacation. Colombia's capital, and by far the country's largest city, Bogotá is a sprawling metropolis, home to eclectic, experimental architecture, a large bohemian university crowd, a lively cafe scene, and dozens of attractive city parks. It is a city bursting with energy and culture.

But it's not all good news. Bogotá is, more than anything, a city of contrasts....