Twice a year, when evening descends upon the picturesque city of Tunja, an enchanting event takes place that brings art, history, and culture to life. The Noche de los Museos, or Night of the Museums, is an annual celebration that transforms Tunja’s museums, public plazas and universities into vibrant centers of activity, welcoming locals and visitors alike to indulge in the wonders of Boyaca’s rich heritage.
A Night of Cultural Revelry
On the Noche de los Museos, which typically occurs in late May, Tunja’s museums and other cultural sites throw open their doors until late hours, offering free admission to all. Excitement runs high as the historic city center fills with art enthusiasts, history buffs, families, and curious explorers flock to various exhibition venues. The event aims to make culture accessible to everyone and create a sense of unity through shared experiences. Participating museums and puntos de encuentro cultural vary for each event, but some representative examples show the wide range of events open to the public.
Exploring Art
Art aficionados will be delighted by the eclectic blend of galleries, museums, and art spaces that participate in the Noche de los Museos. Multiple museums feature contemporary Colombian art, often from local university students, while the Casa del Fundador displays Tunja’s colonial heritage through its collection of paintings and sculptures. The event also boasts pop-up art installations and performances throughout the city streets, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
Unraveling History
History enthusiasts can delve deep into Tunja’s fascinating past during the Noche de los Museos. The Museo del Oro y Arqueología (Gold and Archaeology Museum) holds a captivating array of pre-Colombian artifacts, including intricate golden artifacts crafted by indigenous cultures. The Museo de Historia de Tunja (Tunja History Museum) shares the city’s tale through interactive exhibits, where visitors can witness the transformation of Tunja from a humble indigenous settlement to a thriving colonial town.
Engaging Cultural Activities
The Noche de los Museos is not just about admiring displays in quiet reverence; it is a lively celebration of culture where interactive activities abound. Visitors can participate in workshops, take part in traditional dance performances, witness folk and rock music concerts, and savor local culinary specialties. Last night, in the Plazoleta San Francisco, a unique intersection of culture occurred as the rock show was paused for a performance of the Alumni Marching Band of the Escuela Normal Superior Santiago de Tunja. This engagement fosters a vibrant atmosphere, creating connections between people and their heritage.
A Symbol of Unity
Beyond celebrating art and history, the Noche de los Museos represents a harmonious blend of Tunja’s diverse communities and their collective pride in their cultural roots. In addition to the exhibits, vendors of many traditional Colombian products can also be found arrayed around the center of the city. People from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared heritage, fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening the social fabric of the city.
The Noche de los Museos in Tunja is an enchanting event that showcases the city’s immense cultural offerings. From art exhibitions and historical museums to interactive activities and community engagement, this extraordinary night celebrates the essence of Colombia’s heritage in a truly mesmerizing way. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious about different cultures, the Noche de los Museos is an experience that should not be missed when visiting Tunja. Immerse yourself in the magic of this event, and let it transport you to the heart of Colombian culture.
