Bogotá’s Gold Museum to temporarily close its legendary “Offering” Room

Stunning. Dazzling. Serene. These are just a few words visitors use to describe their experience in the “Sala de la Ofrenda” on the third floor of Bogotá’s legendary Gold Museum. As the pinnacle of any visit to the Museo del Oro, the “Sala de la Ofrenda,” or “Offering Room,” showcases the intricate Muisca Raft, crafted by the ancient pre-Hispanic peoples, and the exquisite gold artifact that has captivated the imaginations of visitors and scholars alike since its discovery in 1969.

Renowned as one of Bogotá’s most important cultural landmarks, the Museo del Oro will soon undertake a major renovation that will affect one of its most significant and beloved exhibits. Beginning October 7, 2024, the “Ofrenda” salon will temporarily close for a comprehensive update aimed at enhancing its presentation and visitor experience. The renovation, expected to last until December 12, will introduce new narratives and technologies that promise to deepen the understanding of this iconic artifact within its cultural context.

The Muisca Raft, a ceremonial piece from the ancient Muisca civilization, depicts a raft carrying figures and symbolic objects used in rituals. This artifact is not just an exemplary piece of pre-Hispanic metallurgy but also a window into the spiritual and ceremonial practices of the Muisca people. Its intricate design and historical significance make it one of the museum’s most visited exhibits and a key attraction for tourists from around the world.

The forthcoming renovation of the “Sala de la Ofrenda” is set to be a transformative project. The museum’s goal is to renew the exhibition’s focus and update its narratives based on the latest research. This will include the integration of new technologies to enhance the visitor experience and provide a more immersive understanding of the Muisca civilization. For international visitors, the revamped salon will offer an enriched perspective on the archaeological importance of the Muisca Raft and other unique artifacts.

During the renovation period, the Muisca Raft will be temporarily relocated to the Cosmology and Symbolism Hall, ensuring that visitors still have the opportunity to view this remarkable object. This interim display will allow guests to continue appreciating the raft’s beauty and mesmerizing details, albeit in a different context. The rest of the Gold Museum’s exhibits will remain open, offering a comprehensive array of Colombia’s treasures and cultural experiences.

The closure of the “Offering Room” is a significant moment for the Gold Museum, which is committed to continually improving and updating its exhibitions. This renovation is expected to enhance the educational impact of what is on display. And even though for many international visitors the Muisca Raft is a highlight of their trip to Bogotá, from mid-December onward, the inaugural exhibition will provide a richer context for understanding the ancient practices and traditions of gold in Muisca society.

As the renovation work progresses, the Gold Museum will keep visitors informed about the status of the “Sala de la Ofrenda” and any changes to the exhibition schedule. For those planning to visit Bogotá, the Gold Museum remains a must-see destination, with a treasure trove of experiences and cultural activities.

The Museo del Oro is located at Parque Santander – Santander Park – corner of Carrera 6 with Calle 16. The museum’s is open to the public from:

• Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Last entry at 6:00 p.m.)
• Sundays: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Last entry at 4:00 p.m.)
• Closed on Mondays, including public holidays that fall on a Monday.
• Closed in 2024 on Tuesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 25 (Christmas), Tuesday, December 31, and Wednesday, January 1, 2025 (New Year’s).
• No prior reservation is required.

Admission:

• Tuesday to Saturday: COP $5,000
• Holidays: COP $5,000
• On Sundays, admission is free for everyone.