The Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino (Country House of Saint Peter of Alexandria) is a 17th-century villa where the military leader Simón Bolívar died. Visit the on-site museum showcasing works of art from the countries he helped to liberate from colonial powers.
Simón Bolívar is considered one of the most influential people in the struggle for independence for South American countries including Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia.
Take a guided tour in English and learn about Simón Bolívar through the stories told by the guide. You can also follow very informative English signs. Admire the yellow colonial buildings where the military leader was hosted for two weeks before his death. See the bed where he died of tuberculosis in 1830. Amble around the site’s tranquil grounds and explore the white buildings full of galleries and museums. Browse watercolor paintings and other artwork from countries Bolívar helped to liberate. Find out about the history of those countries through the artists’ eyes.
Look for iguanas and other wildlife around the well-kept gardens. A small forest of trees surrounds the area, blocking out street noise. Sit on the shaded grass, admire the pond and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Buy snacks and drinks at the site’s small shop. If you need supplies, visit the large shopping centre across the street.
There is a small entrance fee to the quinta, with a discount for children.
Find the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino toward the eastern side of the city, just south of the Manzanares River. The 3-mile (4.8-kilometre) taxi journey from Santa Marta’s Historic Centre should take about 10 minutes. Although you can find cabs in the streets in the city centre, it is harder to get one near the quinta. Ask the quinta staff if they can order one for you. Make sure to negotiate a price before you get in, as many taxis in Santa Marta do not have metres.
If you’re visiting other South American countries, be sure to see the home of Bolívar, the man who had such a huge impact on their evolution to their current status.
