Sanctuary of Monserrate

The Sanctuary of Monserrate in the eastern hills of Bogotá can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. It is located at 3,172 meters above sea level, at the top of Monserrate or Cerro de Las Nieves. Devotees climb up a nearly two-mile path to this traditional religious pilgrimage site, which began in 1620.

If you walk up, you will witness a variety of handicrafts, traditional food, station of the cross sculptures, and the chapel of the Virgin of Monserrat. If you take the funicular or cable car up, you may enjoy a stunning view of the city as well as the richness of flora and fauna on the hill, which is home to more than 80 kinds of birds.

Once at the top of the hill, you can engage in a variety of activities, including the primary tourist destination, the Basilica Sanctuary of Monserrate. In this church, you may see stunning colonial-era sculptures, including the important figure of the fallen Lord of Monserrate, which depicts Jesus falling for the third time on his trip to Calvary. It is considered to be amazing since its hair grows and when they try to drop it to the city, its weight rises, making it a difficult undertaking to complete.

Behind the sanctuary is a vast plaza with handicrafts or souvenirs, as well as various restaurants where you can sample the most diverse gastronomy of Bogota, from hot chocolate with tamale and toast to the famed rib broth, changua, ajiaco, and many other dishes. In addition, near to the Sanctuary, there are two beautiful nineteenth-century restaurants with terraces overlooking the mountain and the city, where you can enjoy traditional Colombian cuisine as well as international cuisines.

Google Rating: 4.7/5.0

Location: Santa Fe, Bogota, Colombia

Opening hours: Daily