Villa de Leyva is a stunning historic town located in the Boyacá department of Colombia. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and breathtaking natural surroundings. The town is home to a variety of attractions, including the Casa Terracota Museum, the Museum of Paleontology, and the Plaza Mayor Square. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as horseback riding, bird watching, hiking, and more.
History
Villa de Leyva was founded in 1572 by the Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Suarez Rendon. It was originally called Villa de Santa Maria de Leyva, in honor of the Virgin Mary. The town was strategically located on the road between Bogotá and Tunja, making it an important stop along the way. In 1620, the town was granted a royal charter by the Spanish Crown, giving it the status of a city. Throughout its long history, Villa de Leyva has been the site of several important battles and events, including the Battle of Boyacá and the signing of the Treaty of Villa de Leyva.
Amazing Facts
Villa de Leyva is home to the world's largest cobblestone square, the Plaza Mayor. The square is more than 14,000 square meters in size and is surrounded by colonial-era buildings with colorful facades. The square is also home to a large bronze monument of the Virgin Mary, which was built in 1620.
Villa de Leyva is also home to the Casa Terracota Museum, which houses the largest collection of terracotta sculptures in the world. The museum features more than 500 sculptures created by local artist Alejandro Otero.
Things to Do
Villa de Leyva is a great destination for outdoor activities. Horseback riding is a popular pastime in the area, and there are plenty of trails to explore. Bird watching is also popular, with more than 200 species of birds in the area. There are also several hiking trails, perfect for exploring the area's stunning natural scenery.
The town is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Paleontology, which houses a collection of fossils and dinosaur remains. The Casa Terracota Museum is also worth a visit, as it houses the largest collection of terracotta sculptures in the world.
Villa de Leyva is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. With its stunning colonial-era architecture, beautiful natural surroundings, and plenty of activities to enjoy, it is a great place to explore and experience Colombian culture.