Situated in the heart of the Colombian Andes, Monguí is a not so distant village from the department of Boyacá, famous for its beautiful colonial architecture, interesting history and beautiful surroundings. Monguí is one of the most beautiful towns in Colombia, with its old cobblestone streets, its houses painted in white and with red tile roofs that take the visitor back to the colonial times and has been classified as part of the Network of Colombian Heritage Villages. This town was established in 1601 and has since developed to feature some of the iconic landmarks such as the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Monguí which was constructed in the 17th Century and is a clear testimony to the area’s cultural heritage.
However, what Monguí has to offer is not only its history. Monguí is famous for its passion for football and is referred to as “The Town of the Balls” (El Pueblo de los Balones). This tradition can be traced back to the early 20th century when artisan started to make the footballs by hand from leather and the art has been kept on till this day and is still being done. These handmade footballs are famous all over Colombia for their quality and manufacturing and are an example of the people’s love for the sport in the town.
You might also like:
In addition to the cultural and sporting heritage, Monguí offers an ecological experience. The town is located at an altitude of between 2,923 and 3,854 meters above sea level with temperatures of between 8ºC and 16ºC and is surrounded by diverse flora, fauna and beautiful natural scenery. There are hiking trails to pristine waterfalls, lush forests, and the beautiful Páramo de Ocetá, making Monguí a heaven for nature lovers.
No matter what you choose to do – learn about its history, find out more about its football connection or just get lost in its natural beauty, Monguí has something for everyone.
Mongui`s History
The history of Monguí can be traced back long before the arrival of the Spaniards, for the land was originally occupied by the Muisca, one of the most developed peoples of Colombia. In 1550 Franciscan monks came to evangelize the indigenous population and to that end, moved the population in order to facilitate their conversion and utilization as workers. The construction of the town’s iconic Basilica started with a chapel, with the stones being taken over a bridge which was especially built to carry the stones. The convent which was constructed in 1760 together with the church of Our Lady of Monguí has powerful iconography of the colonial history of the town and the evangelization efforts, a chapter in the town’s past that any visitor must not miss.
The settlers, however, subdued the indigenous people and were allowed to give them inalienable land titles so that they could go on with their productive activities. But in the 18th century, these titles were cancelled, and the indigenous population was forced off the land, and the area was put up for auction to settlers. There is still a dark chapter in Monguí’s history that is still felt to this day, as descendants of the indigenous people struggle to get their ancestral land back from the descendants of the settlers. The resilience and the spirit of Monguí, which has grown from these roots to become the vibrant, football-loving town it is today, is evidence of this.
Things to Do in Monguí: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature
1. Explore the Architectural Heritage
Monguí’s main square and surrounding streets showcase its colonial charm, with highlights such as the Basilica Menor, the Franciscan Convent, and the Puente de Calicanto. The Calicanto Bridge, dating back to 1715, is one of the village’s oldest structures and symbolizes the intersection of indigenous and colonial histories. Built from stone, lime, and bull’s blood, it was essential for transporting stones used in constructing the grand basilica. As you cross this ancient bridge, legends of buried treasure – a golden ox and a serpent – add a touch of mystique.
The Basilica and Convent of Nuestra Señora de Monguí, constructed over a hundred years, is another must-see. The convent, now a museum of religious art, provides a fascinating glimpse into the methods used by the colonists to blend indigenous and Catholic cultures. The rich iconography and solemn atmosphere within its walls make this a deeply reflective visit.
2. Immerse Yourself in Monguí’s Football Tradition
Monguí is not only known for its colonial landmarks but also for its unique contribution to Colombia’s football culture. Since 1934, the town has been a hub for handcrafted soccer balls, a tradition that started with Frolián Ladino, who brought this skill from Brazil. Today, visitors can explore the balloon factories that produce these high-quality leather balls, witnessing the intricate process that has defined the town’s economy for decades. There are even opportunities to participate in the crafting process, gaining firsthand appreciation for the expertise involved.
3. Discover Monguí’s Natural Beauty
For nature enthusiasts, Monguí is the gateway to the breathtaking Páramo de Ocetá, one of the most beautiful moorlands in the world. A trek through this high-altitude ecosystem offers stunning vistas of valleys filled with unique flora like the frailejones, as well as wildlife such as the white-tailed deer and the rare paramo hummingbird. Visitors can explore natural landmarks like the Black Lagoon and the City of Stone, or even catch a glimpse of the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy on a clear day. You can either hike or take a 4×4 to access this magical landscape, but a guide is recommended to fully appreciate the ecological wonders.
4. Adventure Sports
Monguí also caters to thrill-seekers. Rock climbing on the outskirts of the village challenges visitors with routes ranging from four to eight hours. For those who prefer cycling, mountain biking tours take you along scenic routes that span 20 to 40 kilometers, reaching altitudes of up to 3,650 meters above sea level. The breathtaking landscapes make these activities both physically rewarding and visually stunning.
5. Experience Boyacense Culture
A visit to Monguí wouldn’t be complete without diving into the local Boyacense culture. Known for their warmth, the people of Monguí embody the spirit of the region. You can experience this firsthand by becoming a “peasant for a day,” participating in agricultural activities, learning about animal care, and preparing traditional Andean foods. This hands-on experience offers a deep connection to the rural life that still thrives in Monguí.
6. Visit the Ball Museum
To dive deeper into Monguí’s football legacy, the Ball Museum offers historical insights into the local industry, telling the story of how soccer ball production became the town’s main economic driver. The museum also highlights the impact of globalization on this traditional craft, particularly the challenges posed by mass-produced balls from abroad.
Best Hotels and Hostels in Mongui
If you’re planning to spend a few days in Monguí, there are accommodations to suit every budget. One recommended option is Hotel Otti Colonial, which complements the town’s historic charm with modern comforts, making it the perfect base from which to explore.
Mongui Plaza Hotel
Conclusion
Whether you’re wandering through Monguí’s historic streets, trekking through the Páramo de Ocetá, or getting hands-on with the town’s football heritage, Monguí offers a truly unique blend of culture, history, and nature. This charming village may be small, but its rich offerings make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the essence of Colombia.
"In diesem Beitrag verwenden wir sogenannte „Affiliate Links“ (Werbelinks). Diese leiten dich zu Produkten und Dienstleistungen, welche wir dir zu 100% empfehlen können. Solltest du über diese Links etwas buchen/kaufen, erhalten wir als Dankeschön eine kleine Provision. Dir entstehen dadurch aber keine weiteren Kosten. So können wir auch weiterhin all unsere Inhalte, Bilder und Videos völlig kostenfrei für dich anbieten."
