The house was commissioned by Manuel de Cuéllar in the late 18th century.
Despite its name, it is historically documented that no Viceroy ever actually stayed in the residence.
The building features typical 'bahareque' construction, a colonial technique using bamboo and mud, adapted for earthquake resilience.
The residence was declared a National Monument of Colombia in 1959.
The House of the Viceroy, or Casa del Virrey, is a prominent 18th-century colonial mansion located in the historic center of Cartago, Valle del Cauca. Constructed between 1750 and 1790, the building is one of the oldest surviving structures in the city and serves as a public museum showcasing regional history and religious art. The architecture features traditional Andalusian influences, characterized by a central courtyard, thick adobe walls, and large wooden balconies. It is famously associated with the legend that it was built to house the Viceroy of New Granada, José de Ezpeleta, during a potential visit that never materialized. The museum collection focuses on the preservation of local heritage, including ecclesiastical objects and antique furnishings from the colonial period. It remains a key landmark for understanding the architectural legacy of the Valle del Cauca region.
The central courtyard featuring the traditional colonial fountain and the wooden wrap-around balcony.
Inquire if a guided tour is available upon arrival to access deeper historical context regarding the colonial artifacts.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the nearby historic colonial churches, as they share the same architectural era.
Do not mistake the building for a modern government office; respect the site as a preserved heritage monument.
Closed on Mondays for maintenance.
Maintain a quiet volume; touching artifacts or leaning on historical walls is prohibited.
