Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino is a colonial hacienda in the Mamatoco district of Santa Marta, about 5 km from the city centre. Simón Bolívar spent his final days here, and the house is now a museum where his bed and personal belongings are on view. The grounds also hold a contemporary art museum, a botanical garden and the Altar de la Patria monument. Guided tours are the best way to hear the story of the estate, and the shaded paths make the visit easy to pace.
From sugar estate to Bolívar's last home
The estate was founded as a hacienda in 1608 by Francisco de Godoy y Cortesía. For much of its history it was a working sugar cane estate, with its own mill and distillery.
Over the centuries the property changed hands many times, reportedly 15 times. In the early 1800s it was owned by Joaquín de Mier, a Spaniard who supported Colombian independence. He invited Bolívar to stay while the liberator prepared for his journey back to Europe.
Bolívar died here on 17 December 1830, at the age of 47. The house has been kept as a museum since then, and it preserves documents and objects from his life and work.
Inside the house
The colonial architecture, antique furniture and artistic works in the house tell the story of the independence period. Guided tours take you into the former hacienda, where you can see Bolívar's bed and personal belongings from the time of his death.
The art on display comes from the nations he helped free, so the rooms connect the house's history with the wider region. The pathways from the house lead to the other parts of the estate.
Gardens, monument and art museum
The grounds have been converted into a botanical garden with native and tropical plants, and trees and wildlife surround the buildings. The shade under the trees makes it easier to walk between the sights during the warmer hours.
The Altar de la Patria is a monument to Bolívar on the estate. Beside it, the Bolivarian Museum of Contemporary Art presents modern work in a setting shaped by the colonial house.
The estate hosts cultural events through the year, and it is sometimes used for official ceremonies during the holidays.
Planning the visit
The estate is in the Mamatoco district, about 5 km from downtown Santa Marta. It is roughly 20 minutes away by taxi or bus.
Booking tickets ahead is recommended. The entrance, restrooms, seating and parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and the site has activities that suit children.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Entry has been listed at COP 22,000 in published material. Check the official website for the current price.
Do I need to book ahead?
Booking tickets in advance is recommended. Guided tours are available, and the entry fee has been reported to include a Spanish-language guide.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, restrooms, seating and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
How do I get there from Santa Marta?
The estate is about 5 km from the city centre in the Mamatoco district. It is roughly 20 minutes away by taxi or bus.
When is the best time to visit?
Go early in the day or on a weekday to avoid crowds from cruise passengers.
