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Historic house · Tarija, Tarija
Casa Dorada
House with a gilded and silvered façade in downtown Tarija, built in the early 20th century for the merchant Moisés Navajas. It mixes Art Nouveau and Mudéjar elements and houses the Casa de la Cultura.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Casa Dorada
Casa Dorada is located in central Tarija, a few blocks from Luis de Fuentes y Vargas square. It was built for the merchant Moisés Navajas Ichazo, one of the city’s wealthiest men in the early 20th century. The design is attributed to the Camponovo family of architects, of Swiss-Italian origin. An academic publication of the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés records the inauguration on January 3, 1903; travel guides give other dates.
The façade painted gold and silver, with a row of female figures at the top, gives the house its name. The style mixes Art Nouveau and Mudéjar elements. On the ground floor there were commercial rooms of the family, open to an inner courtyard; a white marble staircase leads to the main floor.
Today the building belongs to the university and houses the Casa de la Cultura de Tarija. The upper floor functions as a museum, with family furniture and objects brought from Europe, including a pianola. The private chapel has mural paintings of the Passion of Christ.
Entry is by guided tours at times that vary.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes for the guided tour.
Best time
During weekdays, at the guided-tour times, which vary. Confirm before you go. The façade looks more striking in the morning sun.
How to get there
It is on Ingavi Street, in the city center, a few minutes’ walk from Luis de Fuentes y Vargas square and the cathedral.
Tip
Look at the façade from the sidewalk opposite to see the figures at the top, then go in for the visit. Combine it with the cathedral and the San Francisco convent, all within walking distance.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Casa Dorada
Why is the Casa Dorada called that?
Because of its façade painted in gold and silver, with a row of female figures at the top. The house was built for the merchant Moisés Navajas at the beginning of the 20th century.
Can you visit the Casa Dorada inside?
Yes, on guided visits. The upper floor functions as a museum, with furniture and objects from the Navajas family and a chapel with mural paintings. Confirm the opening hours before you go.
What operates in the Casa Dorada?
Tarija’s Casa de la Cultura, with a museum on the upper floor and exhibitions on the ground floor. The building belongs to the university.