For the beauty of its landscapes, the richness of its earth, and its jewel beneath the Earth's surface, Zipaquirá is somewhat of a must during a stay in Bogotá. Traveling 30 miles north of the city, through countryside once occupied by native Muisca, Zipaquirá is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Colombia.
Zipaquirá is most famous for its Cathedral carved from the salt mines west of the town. Colombians will proudly tell you that the mountain in which the mines are situated could keep the world supplied with salt for more than one hundred years.
The mines have been expanding since the tenth century, and at the heart of them, you will find the Cathedral which was opened in 1954. The subtle lighting pronounces the 14 Stations of the Cross, each station sculpted by a different artist. At the lowest point of the cross, 180 meters below the Earth's surface, are the nave and the north and south aisles dominated by the 16 meter high central cross. The illumination and execution of the work is a tribute to modern techniques and years of work from the miners to the artists.
The vast atrium which is 75 meters long and 18 meters high can accommodate 8,400 people.
Around the central square of Zipaquirá the colonial buildings still hold their charm footed by brickwork paving and overlooked by the Cathedral Diocesana de San Antonio.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Colombia specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
La Candelaria Walking Tour
La Candelaria is Bogotá's heart and soul, from humble beginnings, the oldest part of the city and the Plaza Bolivar are high on any visitor's agenda, a wonderful place to start to discover Bogotá.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
