Santa Fe de Antioquia Colombia - 1st May 2015

Santa Fe de Antioquia is a municipality in the Antioquia Department, Colombia. The city is located approximately 50 miles (80 km) north of Medellín, the department capital. It has a population of approximately 23,000 inhabitants.

Founded in 1541 by Jorge Robledo as Villa de Santafé on the western bank of the Cauca River, in 1545 it received the coat of arms and the title of City of Antioquia from King Philip II of Spain. It was elevated to the status of parish in 1547 by the bishop of Popayán. It changed its name in 1584 when it became the capital of Antioquia. It was a mining town from its beginnings and the gold mining operation has been the base of its economy.

Its cathedral was constructed in 1799 and elevated to Diocese of Antioquia in 1804 by Pope Pius VII. In 1813 Antioquia was declared a sovereign and independent state with Santa Fe as its capital, a status it maintained until 1826, when Medellín was chosen as the new departmental seat. Due to the state of conservation of its colonial architecture, it was declared a national monument in 1960.

Río Cauca

Family and Friends

Yarumo Blanco Tree

Blue Tanager

Town Square with the Cathederal in the back ground

Street Market

Motor Taxi

Smoked Chorizo

My favourite beer in Colombia

Deep fried Pig's intestines

Christmas in Medellin

December 19th - Christmas Lights in Medellin Colombia

We were in Medellin Colombia to spend Christmas with Silvia's family. We arrived late on the 18th, and were met by Silvia's Mum, Sister, Brother, Brother In-Law and Nephew. At the Airport we were greeted with 'Bienvenidos" banners and balloons.

After getting into the car, we headed of towards the city and stopped on the way for Empinadas, and Aguardiente.

On the 19th, the family had organised a party Chiva (Type of Bus). The Chiva had all its seats removed, and had a Disco installed with disco lights and speakers. It also had a bar.

The Chiva took use around the city of Medellin to see all the Christmas lights, and at the same time was playing music and everyone was dancing and enjoying the evening.

Christmas Lights