Visiting the capital city of Colombia, the incredible Monserrate mountain is the main thing to see and to visit there.
Having 10 341 feet above sea level, this mountain stands out the Bogota skyline.
Also, it is considered the most significant and famous symbol of the city.
From this area, you can enjoy an incredible view of the city and the Andes Mountains
Moreover, it has a very rich history and great cultural significance.
In this article, we’ve collected some of the greatest facts about Monserratte you may like to learn before visiting it.
Contents
The Name ‘Monserrate’
The mountain of Monserrate in Bogota is named after the mountain not far from Barcelona in Spain.
It is home to an ancient, beautiful monastery in the Catalonia mountains.
The mountain in Spain is known as one of the most important places in the country.
Speaking of Monserrate in Bogota, it is also an important place for locals.
Church On Top of the Mountain
The church in the area was built in 1640 in order to honor the church of “Our Lady of Monserratte” or the Virgine of Monserrate.
It is located in Barcelona.
The church in Bogota is known for its beautiful crucifix and an incredible statue of Jesus that is called ‘El Señor Caído’, or ‘The Fallen Lord’.
Thousands of locals as well as tourist from all over the world visit this place annually.
Place of Pilgrimage
The mountain is considered a significant place of worship.
Numerous pilgrims climb this mountain barefoot or on their knees in order to show their faith.
Also, it is a popular place among numerous nature lovers that want to enjoy some hiking.
People say that as soon as you reach the top of the mountain and enjoy the city view you’ll have the feeling of reflection and relaxation.
If you decide to climb to the top on foot, you may take you about an hour to reach your destination.
If you don’t feel like walking, you can enjoy a ride on a cable car or a funicular.
It will take about 4-5 minutes to reach the top of the mountain.
The Ancient Muisca People
As we’ve mentioned befor, the mountain has a long-lasting history that started in the Pre-Colombian era.
Back then the region was inhabited by indigenous people of Muisca who spoke the ancient Chibcha language.
These people’s religion was based on astronomy and the moon and the sun were its central parts.
When they discovered that the sun rose right behind the Monserrate, they started to use the mountain as the place for worship for the solar god of Sué.
Back then it was called ‘quijicha caca’, which means ‘grandmother’s foot.’
The Muisca built a beautiful temple on the top of the mountain.
The Catholic Era
After the Spanish conquest and the invasion of the indigenous lands, temples created by the Muisca were destroyed.
Later they were replaced by various Catholic buildings.
Things to Do at the Summit
First of all, you need to visit the church on the top of the mountain.
After it, there are lots of places you can visit including great souvenir shops, amazing restaurants, local markets, and even beautiful cobbled streets.
Perfect Place to Watch the Sunset
From the top of the Monserrate, you can see the whole city of Bogota including its downtown, southern and northern parts.
In other words, it is a great place to enjoy the sunset over the city.
Eat at one of Bogota’s Best Restaurants
If you want to have a great meal while at the top of the Monserrate, consider visiting the restaurant, Casa Santa Clara.
It is one of the best places not only in the area but in the whole city as well.
There, you can enjoy not only a great meal but also an incredible view of the city.
Bogotá Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Bogotá Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
