Bolívar Square (Caracas)

Plaza Bolívar is the principal historic square in central Caracas, Venezuela, named for the independence leader Simón Bolívar and forming the civic core of the city.

The open rectangular plaza is dominated by an equestrian statue of Simón Bolívar and is bordered by important colonial and civic buildings, including the Cathedral of Caracas and the Casa Natal de Simón Bolívar. The square functions as a focal point for ceremonies, commemorations and civic gatherings.

The plaza dates to Caracas’ colonial era and was shaped over the 17th and 18th centuries; its current name and central symbolic role date from the independence period and the 19th century.

Plaza Bolívar sits in the historic center of Caracas and is immediately adjacent to the cathedral and municipal buildings.

• Historic role: The square occupies the historic civic heart of Caracas and has housed public ceremonies and political events since the colonial period.
• Monument: An equestrian statue of Simón Bolívar stands on the plaza and is a focal point for local commemorations.

What to See #

• Cathedral of Caracas: Located on the north side of the square, this colonial-era church dates back to Caracas' early history and faces the plaza.
• Casa Natal de Simón Bolívar: A preserved colonial house adjacent to the plaza that is presented as the birthplace of Simón Bolívar and houses exhibits about his life.