Santa Marta is a coastal city, which is located in Colombia. It has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latin America. In this article we will share more about the origin and history of Santa Marta. Come and visit this beautiful city on your next vacation, and discover why it is a fascinating place!
Santa Marta has its origins in the year 1525, it has more than 500 years of history! It was in this year Rodrigo de Bastidas arrived on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. At that time, an indigenous settlement called Chimila was the cradle where the city of Santa Marta was established; Santa Marta was named after the patron saint of sailors.
History of Santa Marta
Due to its location, during the colonial era, Santa Marta served as an important center of commerce and a port of entry for European products.
The city was a center of gold and silver production, it’s wealth and importance gave way to many of the buildings and monuments; all of them full of history and you can still appreciate some of them today if you walk through its streets.
This is not all, we still have more to tell you about the history of Santa Marta!. During the Colombian War of Independence, Santa Marta became an important center of struggle. This is how on July 29, 1824, the city declared itself independent, and became the first city in Colombia to do so. From that moment, Santa Marta was established as a city of great historical value and cultural importance for the country. Since then, it has witnessed many important events and changes in the history of Colombia.
During the 1960s, the city of Santa Marta experienced incredible economic growth, thanks to the massive exploitation of oil and gas in the region.
Consequently, the economic and construction development of the city increases. Santa Marta became a unique destination, full of life and color, thanks to its multicultural richness and its great natural beauty.
Tourism In Santa Marta
Since we are talking about natural beauty, we want to tell you that Santa Marta is an absolute wonder!.
One of its greatest virtues is its location on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, being an ideal and very popular place for all lovers of the sun, the beach and water sports.
There are many different beaches, some of them with beautiful corals, white sand and beautiful crystal clear waters. Some of our favorite beaches are El Rodadero and Taganga for their easy access and calm waters as well as Playa Cristal, which is a true beauty. There are many more beaches to choose from, do not hesitate to venture yourself into this incredible city and discover which one is your favorite!
If we talk about natural jewels, we cannot miss the Tayrona National Natural Park. The park is probably the most popular tourist attraction in Santa Marta. It has so much to do that it would take you a whole week to go through it completely.
Tayrona Park is home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna, as well as ancient pre-Columbian ruins. During your visit you can go into the jungle on a long walk, get to know some of its wonderful beaches, camp in the park and even learn about all the efforts for the conservation and revitalization of the resources and natural life of the area. If you travel to Santa Marta, don’t forget to put this place on your list!
Santa Marta is a city that has a rich history and culture that has influenced the development of Colombia. Today it is a popular tourist destination in Colombia, known for its beaches, national parks, and rich history. If you want to visit this wonderful destination, you may want to find accommodation in Santa Marta with all the comforts. Get yourself ready to fully explore this beautiful coastal city.
