Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva is a Colombian Heritage Town, currently on the list to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that is located a three hour drive from the capital Bogotá. Founded in 1572 during the Spanish colonization, the town has become a famous tourist destination as much of the original architecture is still intact.

The main square of Villa de Leyva, Plaza Mayor, is one of the largest colonial squares in South America, measuring 14,000 square meters. It is surrounded by colonial buildings and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and people-watch. Another famous sight is the Casa Terracota. This unique building is made entirely out of clay and is one of the largest pieces of pottery in the world. It was designed and built by Colombian architect Octavio Mendoza, and it is now open to the public as a museum.

Villa de Leyva is also known for its gastronomy, with a range of local dishes made with traditional ingredients such as corn, potatoes, and beans. The area surrounding the town is one of Columbia’s best-known wine regions, thanks to the cool, dry climate. Wineries are easy to find in the area, and welcome visitors.

Villa de Leyva

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