To spot the National Palace, just look to your right for a grand, white, five-story building with tall windows and a classic, elegant entrance facing the eastern side of Cayzedo Square.
Alright, picture yourself in front of this magnificent structure-its white façade almost glowing, tall arching windows lined up like guards, and cedar wood doors that have welcomed countless footsteps over the decades. The National Palace stands here like a wise old storyteller in Cali's historic center, keeping secrets from nearly a hundred years ago. Now, back in the late 1920s, this land was just a patch owned by the department, and Cali was spreading out like spilled coffee, with government offices scattered all over the city. The government wanted to tidy things up a bit-can you imagine their frustration, running around town with important papers every time a signature was needed? So, they decided, “Let’s build a palace!”
Joseph Martens, a Belgian architect who liked his buildings grand and dignified, drew up the first plans. Soon, local engineers and builders joined in. Construction began in 1928, and let me tell you, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The clatter of hammers and shouting workers filled the air. But in 1931, public unrest stopped everything-imagine the half-built palace standing silent, a skeletal giant brooding over Cali. It was eventually finished in 1933, thanks to the determination of a new crew led by engineer Guillermo Garrido.
Built of cement and brick, with floors as solid as a judge’s verdict, and cedar wood arches and bronze locks so shiny they could almost double as mirrors, this building became the home for judges, administrators, and even… a small sugar cane museum! Every day, 28 offices buzz with the city’s legal drama, while visitors wander around learning about the sweet roots of Cali’s history. And if you think this place looks important, you’re spot on-it’s so special, it was declared a National Monument in 1977. So, as you stand here, you’re not just seeing a building, you’re meeting Cali’s storyteller, still keeping watch over the heart of the city.
