Religious history, local arts and crafts traditions, and walks in parks give Chiquinquirá several distinct points of interest. These are complemented by a former railway station that has been repurposed for cultural use, and the city’s location in the Río Suárez valley. Together, these connect a range of themes with a landscape of Andean mountains, fertile valleys and natural areas.

Culture and Landscape in Chiquinquirá

Chiquinquirá lies at an altitude of about 2,560 metres above sea level. The city is one of the most significant spiritual, historical and cultural destinations in the department of Boyacá. Chiquinquirá was also home to prominent writers, sculptors and poets; for this reason, it is also known as the “Atenas Boyacense” (“Athens of Boyacá”). This nickname reflects the city’s cultural ties to literature, sculpture and poetry.

Marian Image and Religious History

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Chiquinquirá stands on the northwest side of Plaza de la Libertad. At the main altar is the image of Nuestra Señora del Rosario Virgen de Chiquinquirá, the Queen and Patron Saint of Colombia. Its location on the plaza and the image’s specific place at the main altar provide two clear reference points for this aspect of the city’s religious heritage.

The Iglesia de la Renovación was built at the site where the miracle of renewal is said to have taken place. The church contains an underground well visited by pilgrims. The site thus links a traditional religious story with a specific reason to visit, without requiring a set visiting schedule.

Arts and Crafts and Notable Attractions

Chiquinquirá’s traditional crafts include wood carving and the making of musical instruments. Scapulars and religious objects are also produced. These form part of the city’s cultural identity and are particularly associated with the arrival of pilgrims at the Marian shrine. The range therefore extends from handcrafted works to objects used in religious practice.

Among the major tourist attractions is the historic Puente de la Balsa. The Monumento a la Guabina Chiquinquireña is surrounded by ornamental plants and illuminated at night. Both add further specific points of interest in the city alongside its religious and cultural themes.

From Railway Station to Palacio de la Cultura

The history of Chiquinquirá’s railway station shows a striking change in use. After rail service ended in mid-1975, the station was abandoned and no longer used. It was restored for Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1986; it then remained unoccupied and unused for a time before being converted into the Palacio de la Cultura Rómulo Rozo. Today, the former station building houses this Palacio, which is dedicated to the sculptor from Chiquinquirá. The station’s story thus runs from its historic role in transportation to its cultural dedication.

Walks in the Parks

The parks offer different experiences: walks are available in Parque Julio Flórez, where you can see historic monuments and the buildings surrounding the park. Ecological walks are offered in Parque Juan Pablo Segundo. If you are choosing between these options, one walk focuses on the built environment, while the other has an ecological focus.

Parque Juan Pablo Segundo lies east of Chiquinquirá, at the foot of Cerro Terebinto. Its facilities include a covered sports arena and a Bicicross track. The park therefore differs not only in the walks it offers, but also in its facilities, from the park activity described at Parque Julio Flórez.

Discover more destinations: Sogamoso, Santa Rosa de Viterbo, Tunja, Duitama, Aquitania, Toca, Mongua, Las Brisas

For the regional travel overview: Boyacá.