Seven wonders, when we hear this we are reminded of various
wonders like Colossus of Rhodes, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, etc., but how
about knowing the seven wonders of Colombia? This was based on a competition
sponsored by El Tiempo, a newspaper; these wonders are definitely a must-see
tourist destinations.
- Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
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| The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, seven wonders of Colombia |
Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is the first wonder among the
seven wonders of Colombia with 6,654 votes from the people. This is an
underground Roman Catholic Church and is one of the most prominent and famous
Colombian architectural achievements.
The salt deposits were formed nearly 250 million years ago
and this cathedral is located in a town called Cundinamaraca Department, 49 km
north of Bogota. There are three main sections in the cathedral that symbolizes
the birth, life and death of Jesus Christ; these are
- The Stations of the Cross
- The Dome
- The three naves
Other places of attraction in the Salt Park include “The
Sacred Axis,” The Salt Dome, The Brine Museum and The Salt Auditorium.
- Las Lajas Sanctuary
Las Lajas Sanctuary got a total of 5,057 votes to become the
second wonder of Colombia. It is a basilica church and a best example for
Gothic revival architecture. The sanctuary is built inside the Canyon of
Guaitara River. Laja is the name of a flat sedimentary rock that is found
abundant in Andes Mountains and therefore called the Las Lajas Sanctuary. It
was believed that the apparition of Virgin Mary was seen at this place.
- San Augstin Archaeological Park
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Stone sculpture in San Agustin Archaeological Park
Image via flickr |
San
Agustin Archaeological Park is the third wonder of Colombia with 4,680
votes; it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One can find a lot of skillful
representation of various Gods and mythical animals in this archaeological park
of Colombia. The entire archaeological site occupies over 2,000 sq.kms. Some of
the notable monuments in this park are Las Mesitas, the Bosque de Las Estatuas,
etc.
- Military Architecture of Cartagena de Indias
With 4,389 votes, the military architecture of Cartagena de
Indias took the fourth spot in the seven wonders of Colombia. The coral stone
forts and parts of the walled city are nearly 500 years old and are the best
example of the military architecture of
Cartagena de Indias; these are one
of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Ciudad Perdida
Ciudad Perdida won 4,373 votes to secure the fifth spot
among the seven wonders of Colombia. In Spanish, Ciudad Perdida means “The Lost
City.” It is an archaeological site and is believed to be founded close to 800
AD. This is one of the best places to see small streams and waterfalls; be
aware of the sting of mosquitoes and do not forget to carry mosquito repellents
with you when you travel to Ciudad Perdida.
- Tierradentro
Tierradentro
was elected as one of the seven wonders of Colombia with 2,787 votes. This is a
National Archaeological Park in Inza, Colombia and is one of the UNESCO’s world
heritage sites. This is the best place to see huge underground tombs; these tombs
are decorated with motifs and contain side chambers. Some of the well-known and
must see underground tombs include Alto del Aguacate, Ioma de San Andres, Alto
de Buende.
- Teatro de Cristobal Colon or Teatro Colon
This national theatre received 2,785 votes totally, secured
the seventh spot, and became one of the wonders of Colombia; this is the best
example of Neoclassical style architecture.
Teatro Colon
was built by the Italian architect Pietro Cantini, inaugurated in the year
1892, and declared as a national monument in 1975. The scheme used in this
theater is similar to a horseshoe.
Are you planning to visit Colombia, do not miss to visit
these seven wonders of Colombia. If visiting Colombia is not on your cards, it
is time to accommodate space in your travel calendar for Colombia and visiting
these seven wonders.
