Plaza Bolivar
In the historic center of most colonial towns in Colombia, visitors find large plazas constructed for public gatherings. In many instances, colonial style buildings surround the plaza and large churches or convents may be found in one of the corners. In Tunja, both characteristics are present in the Plaza Bolivar.
Located at the top of a large hill, the Plaza Bolivar is the central gathering place in Tunja, surrounded by government buildings, restaurants, and street merchants. A large monument to the Liberator, Simon Bolivar stands in the middle of the Plaza, which is framed by the colonial edifices, the state lottery and mayoral offices, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. James the Apostle.
Just off the Plaza, you will find vendor after vendor during the day. Several coffee shops also surround the plaza, offering hot drinks and comidas rapidas in the typical style. At night, the streets around the plaza boast restaurants such as El Maizel or Montevedra.
