Bogota Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / November 19, 2024
Bogota Then
Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, has a rich historical background tied to its indigenous roots and European colonization.
The city’s European settlement began in 1538 when Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, a Spanish conquistador, founded the city after conquering Bacatá, a significant settlement of the Chibcha people.
The name Bogotá is derived from the Chibcha word Bacatá (or Muyquytá), though there are several interpretations of its meaning.
One theory suggests that Bacatá means “walling of the farmland,” while another popular translation refers to it as “The Lady of the Andes.”
Additionally, some believe Bacatá was named after a local Muisca chief who ruled the area.
Jiménez de Quesada initially named the settlement “Our Lady of Hope,” but in 1540, the Spanish crown officially renamed it Santafé, meaning “Holy Faith,” and designated it as a city.
Before the arrival of the Spanish, the region was known by the Muisca people as “Thybzaca” or “Old Town.”
This blend of indigenous and colonial influences shaped Bogotá into the vibrant and diverse city it is today.
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Bogota History
The history of Bogotá, Colombia, traces back to the ancient Muisca civilization, a part of the larger Chibchan linguistic family that inhabited the Bogotá savanna.
This civilization, known for its advanced agricultural, goldworking, and salt production techniques, dominated the region from around 0 AD.
The Muisca Confederation, composed of various tribes led by chiefs (caciques), engaged in trade with neighboring groups, exchanging goods like gold, cotton, and coca.
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They had a complex belief system centered around natural deities like the Sun (Sué), Moon (Chía), Chibchacum (the god of rain), and a sophisticated lunisolar calendar.
Their archaeological sites, such as El Infiernito near Villa de Leyva, remain significant examples of Muisca architecture and astronomical knowledge.
By the 15th century, the Muisca were the dominant people in the Bogotá savanna, with their population estimated at half a million.
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The arrival of Spanish conquistadors, led by Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada in 1536, marked the beginning of the end for the Muisca civilization.
After a bloody encounter with the indigenous people, Quesada founded the settlement of Bogotá in 1538, later named Santa Fe.
Despite irregularities in the founding, the city became a colonial stronghold and, in 1540, was recognized as a city by Charles V.
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The city grew rapidly, particularly after it became the seat of the Viceroyalty of New Granada in the 18th century.
Throughout the colonial period, Bogotá remained a key political and cultural center.
The desire for independence from Spanish rule gained momentum in the late 18th century, influenced by European liberal ideals.
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The Insurrection of the Comuneros in 1781 and the actions of intellectuals like Antonio Nariño, who translated and spread the Declaration of the Rights of Man, fueled the push for independence.
Bogotá declared its independence from Spain on July 20, 1810, marking the beginning of the end of Spanish rule in the region.
Today, Bogotá stands as the capital of modern Colombia, a city rich in historical significance and cultural heritage, from its indigenous roots to its pivotal role in the independence movement.
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Bogota Now
Bogotá, officially known as Bogotá, Distrito Capital (Bogotá D.C.), is the vibrant capital and largest city of Colombia, located in the heart of the country on a high plateau called the Bogotá savanna.
With an altitude of 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, the city enjoys a cool, consistent climate year-round. Bogotá holds significant importance as the political, economic, and cultural center of Colombia.
It houses the central offices of all three branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—including the President’s office, the Congress, and the Supreme Court.
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It is not only the administrative hub of the country but also serves as the economic powerhouse of Colombia, contributing nearly a quarter of the nation’s GDP.
As the financial capital, Bogotá hosts the primary financial market in the Andean region, attracting numerous global companies and foreign investments.
In addition to its political and economic prominence, Bogotá is also a hub of education and culture.
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It is home to the largest number of universities and research centers in Colombia, making it a leading destination for higher education in Latin America.
The city boasts an impressive range of cultural attractions, including theaters, museums, and libraries.
The National Library of Colombia and the Virgilio Barco Library are some of its cultural landmarks, while its museums, such as the Gold Museum, showcase Colombia’s rich history and heritage.
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The city’s diverse cultural scene, alongside its status as a global city, has earned its recognition as an “Alpha-” city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC).
Bogotá is also renowned for its green spaces and natural beauty, with numerous parks within the city and its surrounding areas.
The Tequedama Falls, located about 32 kilometers south of the city, is a popular tourist attraction.
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Additionally, the Monserrate mountain, with its scenic tram and cable car ride, offers breathtaking views of Bogotá and is a significant pilgrimage site.
El Dorado International Airport, the largest cargo hub in Latin America and the third busiest in terms of passengers, further connects Bogotá to the world.
With a population of over 7.3 million people, Bogotá continues to grow and solidify its role as one of the most important cities in Latin America, with both historical and modern significance.
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FAQs
Bogotá is famous for being the capital of Colombia and its cultural, political, and economic significance.
The city is home to major institutions like the Colombian government offices, universities, museums (including the Gold Museum), and historical sites such as Monserrate Mountain.
It is also recognized for its role as a financial hub in Latin America and its lively cultural scene.
Bogotá is relatively affordable compared to many large cities worldwide, especially in terms of food, transportation, and housing.
However, prices can vary depending on the area, with central or upscale neighborhoods being more expensive. Overall, it offers a good balance of cost and quality of life.
Bogotá is not in Africa; it is located in Colombia, South America. It is the capital and largest city of Colombia, situated on a high plateau in the Andes Mountains.
Bogotá is making strides toward becoming a smart city with investments in technology, public infrastructure, and sustainability.
It has implemented initiatives to improve traffic management, public services, and green spaces, though it is still in the development phase compared to other leading smart cities globally.