Popayán: an authentic gem of South America

Описание: Popayán: one of the best authentic gems of South America.

Nicknamed “La Ciudad Blanca” (The White City) for its beautifully preserved whitewashed colonial buildings, Popayán is one of Colombia’s most historic and culturally rich cities 🇨🇴

Located in the southwestern highlands, Popayán has long been a center of religion, education, and politics — and was once the capital of southern Colombia during colonial times. Its elegant architecture, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches make it feel like a city frozen in time.

Beyond its beauty, Popayán is famous for its Holy Week processions, recognized by UNESCO for their cultural significance. The city also takes pride in its gastronomy, designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy for its unique blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Colombian culinary traditions.

Surrounded by lush mountains and nearby volcanoes, Popayán is also a gateway to natural adventures and archaeological sites — including the San Agustín ruins and Puracé National Park, where you might even spot a condor.

While less visited than Colombia’s major tourist cities, Popayán offers a quieter, more reflective side of the country — full of history, charm, and local pride.

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