Travel through history by exploring these heritage towns

The architectural richness of Colombia can be appreciated in its heritage towns, places full of color and history.

Colombia has a network of 17 towns that have been designated as Heritage Towns. These places are characterized by their distinct architecture, indigenous culture, unique gastronomy, natural surroundings, and for preserving part of Colombia's history. By visiting them, you can learn more about the country's history and enjoy beautiful landscapes.

To be part of the heritage towns network, the towns must have been places where historical events of the country occurred. That’s why it’s common for these towns to have cobblestone streets, colorful colonial facades, flower-filled balconies, and, above all, a strong and deep-rooted tradition.

Here are some of the 17 heritage towns of Colombia. Visit them, enjoy them, and live the history of Colombia.

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Mompox

This town by the Magdalena River is a true journey back in time. Its colonial buildings with arches and balconies are perfect for sheltering from the heat and enjoying quiet afternoons with the river breeze. One of the must-visit places in this town is the Church of Santa Bárbara, built in 1630 and featuring majestic Baroque architecture. Walking its streets will lead you to unforgettable moments.

Let yourself be amazed by the colonial architecture of Mompox.

Santa Fe de Antioquia 

This town, located very close to Medellín, was the cradle of Antioquian colonization, a process that allowed this region to become one of the most prosperous in Colombia. In addition to its architectural wealth, this town boasts a privileged climate, making it a perfect place for tourism. If you visit this town, remember that the Occidente Suspension Bridge is one of the key points as it was a very advanced structure for the year 1887, when it was built.

Salamina

Amidst mountains adorned with coffee plantations lies Salamina (Caldas), a town that seems straight out of a storybook. Its houses are built with traditional bareque, painted in bright colors, with majestic wooden gates and balconies adorning the narrow streets. This town is famous for its Holy Week celebrations and the Night of Lights on December 7, as the inhabitants of this municipality are experts in pyrotechnics, which is why Salamina is known as the City of Light in Colombia.

Jardín

“The Enchanted Villa” is the perfect definition for this town in Antioquia. Colorful wooden gates, historic colonial buildings, and friendly people turn Jardín into a true paradise. Walking its streets is quite an adventure, as the municipality, thanks to its geographical location, has three thermal floors. To appreciate the town in all its splendor, we recommend taking the La Garrucha tourist cable car.

Monguí

Boyacá is the liberating department of Colombia. In this area of the country, the struggle for independence took shape, and its towns housed the troops that fought for freedom. One of those towns is Monguí, a small settlement located in the mountains and very close to the Ocetá moorland. A town with cobblestone streets, cold weather year-round, and historic yet majestic architecture. One of the attractions of Monguí is the Calicanto bridge, built in the 17th century and still standing over the El Morro River.

Explore the colorful streets of Monguí.

Explore the heritage towns and discover the history of Colombia through its cultural and architectural richness.