Ciudad Perdida, commonly referred to as ‘The Lost City,’ was founded by Tayrona Indians around 800 CE – almost six hundred years before Machu Picchu was built! Reaching this mesmerizing city requires an exhilarating multi-day trek through Colombia’s lush jungle.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a museum that documents Colombian culture and national identity over time.
Cerro Azul
Cerro Azul (also referred to as Cerro Pinturas) stands as a testament to Colombia’s rich cultural and historical legacy. Situated in Guaviare’s jungle department, the site contains ancient Indigenous rock paintings depicting animals, people and geometric patterns painted bright red on a hillside – archaeologists and anthropologists remain puzzled as to which culture painted these murals.
Don’t be misled into thinking these rock paintings were only “discovered” recently; locals have known about them for decades. Researchers have even been able to date seeds and objects found near these paintings, suggesting this region has always been an active hub for trade and culture.
Serrania de la Lindosa cave paintings can be reached via an easy medium-level hike through lush tropical forest in Serrania de la Lindosa, part of Chiribiquete National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors must follow strict guidelines designed to balance artistic interpretation with conservation efforts of both archaeological and natural sites.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Cartagena de Indias’ Castillo San Felipe de Barajas stands as one of Spain’s greatest military achievements from colonial history and should not be missed during any trip to Cartagena de Indias. Situated atop San Lazaro Hill, its incredible architecture stands as an iconic icon to visitors from New York or Peru alike.
Construction began in 1536 and was significantly expanded 121 years later in 1657 when its walls completely encircled the hill, rendering any unwanted entry nearly impossible to achieve.
The Fortress is an architectural masterpiece; its massive walls, tunnels and cannons remain breathtaking today. Visitors can stroll leisurely through its various batteries while admiring startling views of old Cartagena and contemporary Colombia as they uncover more historic secrets of this splendid castle. Allow at least an hour for exploring all corners of this incredible structure!
Zipaquira Salt Cathedral
The Zipaquira Salt Cathedral is an essential destination for travelers visiting this Colombian city. As the centerpiece of Parque de la Sal (Salt Park), an exhibit that displays geology and traditions of salt mining in Cundinamarca region of Colombia. Built entirely out of salt crystals gathered during mining operations at old Zipaquira salt mine tunnels, its extraordinary temple stands as testament to human ingenuity.
Initial salt miners carved an altar and small chapel for prayerful protection from toxic gases and explosions each morning before beginning work, but in 1950 decided to build something bigger and better, leading to the construction of what today is known as Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral.
Zipaquira has become an attractive tourist destination over time, as visitors come to experience its combination of culture and spirituality – it plays an important part of Colombian history and is even considered part of Colombia’s cultural heritage site list. Be it for relaxation or adventure travel – Zipaquira will leave a lasting impression! With its salty beaches and spiritual significance it offers visitors a relaxing retreat or an adventurous journey.
Mompox
Mompox, known as the Golden City for centuries on Magdalena River, today delights visitors with colorful churches and scenic bayou setting. Additionally, Mompox is famous for its metalsmithing tradition – artisans create intricate filigree jewelry a legacy from Spanish colonial period.
Mompox, Colombia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture and unaltered streets that offer visitors an insight into Colombia’s past. Simon Bolivar raised troops here during his fight for Colombian independence during its golden era; during Holy Week celebrations there are processions and religious ceremonies throughout its streets which make Mompox an unforgettable historic destination in Colombia.
