Colombia’s Quirky Quinze: 15 Weird Facts

Introduction:

Colombia, the vibrant and diverse country in South America, is full of surprises and quirks that make it a truly unique destination. From its stunning landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, Colombia has a lot to offer. In this article, we will explore 15 weird and wonderful facts about Colombia that will leave you amazed and intrigued.

Fact 1: Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world.

Colombia is home to a staggering array of plant and animal species, making it one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth. With over 1,800 bird species, 3,000 species of orchids, and a rich diversity of wildlife, Colombia is a haven for nature lovers and conservationists.

Fact 2: The city of Medellin was once the murder capital of the world.

During the height of the drug cartels in the 1980s and 1990s, Medellin gained notoriety as one of the most dangerous cities in the world. However, in recent years, Medellin has undergone a remarkable transformation and is now a vibrant and thriving city known for its innovation and development.

Fact 3: Colombia is the world’s leading producer of emeralds.

Colombia is famous for its high-quality emeralds, which are considered some of the most beautiful and valuable gemstones in the world. The country’s rich emerald deposits have made it the leading producer of these precious stones, with most of them coming from the famous Muzo and Chivor mines.

Fact 4: The national sport of Colombia is tejo.

Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport that involves throwing metal discs at a clay target filled with gunpowder. The objective is to hit the target and create a loud explosion, earning points in the process. Tejo is a popular pastime in Colombia and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Fact 5: Colombia has the world’s tallest palm trees.

The wax palm, Colombia’s national tree, can grow up to 60 meters tall, making it one of the tallest species of palm trees in the world. These impressive trees can be found in the Cocora Valley, where they create a stunning backdrop against the misty mountains.

Fact 6: The town of Villa de Leyva is home to the largest square in South America.

Villa de Leyva, a charming colonial town in Colombia, boasts a sprawling town square that is the largest in South America. This picturesque square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Fact 7: Colombia has a vibrant street art scene.

Colombia is known for its colorful and expressive street art, with cities like Bogota and Medellin serving as open-air galleries for local and international artists. From political murals to abstract graffiti, Colombia’s street art scene is a reflection of the country’s diverse culture and history.

Fact 8: The Amazon rainforest covers nearly a third of Colombia’s territory.

Colombia is home to a significant portion of the Amazon rainforest, which is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. The Colombian Amazon is teeming with wildlife, including rare species like pink dolphins, jaguars, and anacondas.

Fact 9: Colombia is one of the only countries in the world with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Colombia’s unique geography gives it access to both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, making it a paradise for beach lovers and surfers. The country’s coastline is lined with beautiful beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant coral reefs.

Fact 10: The Cocaine Hippos of Pablo Escobar are now an invasive species in Colombia.

When drug lord Pablo Escobar was at the height of his power, he imported several hippos to his private zoo. After Escobar’s death, the hippos were released into the wild and have since multiplied, becoming an invasive species in Colombia’s rivers and lakes.

Fact 11: Colombia is the world’s leading producer of roses.

Colombia’s favorable climate and fertile soil make it an ideal location for growing roses, and the country is now the top producer of roses in the world. Colombian roses are prized for their beauty and quality, with many of them being exported to countries around the globe.

Fact 12: The town of San Agustin is home to a mysterious collection of ancient stone statues.

San Agustin, located in the Colombian Andes, is famous for its impressive collection of pre-Columbian stone statues. These mysterious statues, which date back to the 1st century AD, depict human and animal figures and are believed to have been created by an ancient indigenous civilization.

Fact 13: Colombia is the only country in South America that has both a Pacific and an Atlantic coast.

Colombia’s unique position on the continent gives it access to both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, making it a key player in international trade and commerce. The country’s strategic location has long been a source of pride and prosperity for Colombians.

Fact 14: The town of Zipaquira is home to an underground salt cathedral.

Zipaquira, a picturesque town near Bogota, is famous for its stunning underground salt cathedral. This remarkable church, carved out of a salt mine, features intricate sculptures and altars that attract visitors from around the world.

Fact 15: Colombia is one of the happiest countries in the world.

Despite its turbulent history and challenges, Colombia consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world. Colombians are known for their warmth, friendliness, and resilience, making Colombia a welcoming and vibrant destination for travelers.

Conclusion

Colombia’s quirky and fascinating traits make it a truly unique and enchanting country to explore. From its diverse landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, Colombia has something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant cities, lush rainforests, or ancient archaeological sites, Colombia is sure to leave you amazed and inspired. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Colombia for yourself!