Culture and traditions of Columbia are a unique mix of Indian, European, African and Latin American traditions. Add here beautiful nature and traditional hospitality of local people, and you will understand why the country has become a perfect vacation destination for millions of travellers worldwide.
The capital of the country, Bogota, has a striking contrast of old historic buildings and modern skyscrapers. It’s normal to see both pack mules and modern cars on streets of the city. Main landmarks of Bogota are located in old quarters, where among curving streets one can see ancient churches, monuments and old mansions. There are several interesting sights on Plaza Bolivar, such as Primal Cathedral built in the 16th century, the President Palace, and the monument dedicated to the first president of Columbia.
Several old quarters, which are located in the central part of the city, are home to numerous religious buildings of the 16th – 18th centuries – San Francisco Church, Iglesia de la Conception Church, Santa Clara Church, San Ignacio Church and Nuestra Senora del Carmen Church. Many of the abovementioned shrines have been turned into museums that now exhibit large collections of paintings, icons and other historic artefacts. Besides cathedrals and churches, the old part of the city is the location of several interesting buildings - Fundación Gilberto Alzate Avendaño Mansion, Casa del Marques de San Jorge, Colon Theatre, Luis Angel Arango Library, and the Presidential Residence Palacio de Narino.
Santa Maria is the oldest city of Columbia, so it has many interesting places to visit. Travellers should not forget to visit the Museum of Bolivar that exhibits a large collection of precious items. One more important landmark is located close to the central part of the city. This is La Villa de San Pedro Alexandrino, which was constructed in the 17th century. This is the place where Simon Bolivar spent last years of his life. When it comes to religious landmarks, the most famous one is Santa Maria Cathedral, the building of which was started in the 17th century and lasted nearly 100 years.
Santa Maria suburbs are the location of one more interesting place – the national reserve called Sierra Nevada del Santa Martha. Travellers are recommended to take a look at it as this place is a wondrous combination of ecocentres, where dry deserted places meet dense tropic forests. The town of Cartagena is an interesting place from the historic point of view. The old part of the town is home to numerous colonial period buildings and museums.
Read further:
Cities and sights of Colombia
