The Miraflores Presidential Palace is the official residence of the President of Venezuela.
The presidential palace is located in the old colonial-era city. Construction began on the palace in 1884 under President Joaquin Crespo, who intended to use it as his personal residence.
The palace was designed by Italian engineer Giuseppe Orsi and built in several phases over 20 years. The palace was finally completed under the direction of architect Juan Bautista Salas and purchased by the government of Venezuela in 1911. General Cipriano Castro Ruiz was the first Venezuelan leader to use the palace as his official residence. The White Palace, which houses numerous state agencies, is located opposite the Miraflores Palace.
The palace is renowned for its luxurious interiors. Several rooms in the palace's premises, primarily those linked with historic events, are open to visitors.
President Hugo Chavez lives and works in the Miraflores Palace.