Chorro de Quevedo | Bogota

Information

Landmark: Chorro de Quevedo
City: Bogota
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Chorro de Quevedo, Bogota, Colombia, South America

Chorro de Quevedo is a historic plaza located in the La Candelaria neighborhood of Bogotá, Colombia.

This central square serves as a focal point for cultural activities and historical exploration within the city's oldest district.

Visual Characteristics

The plaza is paved with cobblestones. Surrounding buildings are predominantly colonial-style, featuring white stucco walls and red-tiled roofs. The central feature is a stone fountain. The area is generally open, with limited tree cover within the immediate plaza boundaries.

Location & Access Logistics

Chorro de Quevedo is situated in the heart of La Candelaria, approximately 1.5km East of the city center. Access is via Carrera 1A Este and Calle 23. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding narrow streets, often requiring payment. Several TransMilenio bus routes stop within a 10-minute walk, including those serving the Museo del Oro station (1km West).

Historical & Ecological Origin

The site is believed to be the location where Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada officially founded Bogotá in 1538. The name "Chorro de Quevedo" refers to a small stream that once flowed through the area, named after a colonial magistrate, Miguel de Quevedo.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe street performers, particularly musicians and mimes, who frequently gather in the plaza. The area is a starting point for walking tours of La Candelaria. Local artisans often sell crafts. The nearby "Calle del Embudo" is known for its bars and cafes.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Public restrooms are available in adjacent establishments, typically for a small fee. Shade is minimal within the plaza itself, primarily provided by building overhangs. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong. Food vendors and cafes are abundant on the streets surrounding the plaza.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) offers favorable lighting as the sun angles towards the west. The plaza is most active during weekends and evenings. Weather in Bogotá is generally cool year-round; the driest months are typically December to March and July to August.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the fountain's water, if drunk, will cause visitors to return to Bogotá. Historically, it was a gathering place for indigenous Muisca people before the Spanish conquest.