Things To Do
Basílica Menor de Nuestra Señora de Monguí
One of the most important colonial churches in Boyacá, built in the 17th century, with a fully restored Franciscan cloister. The Basilica honors the patroness of the region of Boyaca and our Lady, the Virgin Mary of Monguí. After a miracle in 1558, involving paintings sent by King Charles I of Spain, and subsequent miracles said to be in her name, you can find many people in the region devoted to the Virgen de Monguí's image. Today, both the church and the cloister museum house a valuable art collection, including famous Baroque religious paintings. It is considered a national monument and was elevated to the title of a Basilica in the 1960s. Fun fact- Gaby's grandparents were married here, Gaby's father proposed to her mother here, and Gaby was baptized here. On his first trip to Colombia, Cristian asked for Gaby's whole family (yes, the extended family) to give their blessing to marry Gaby at the Basilica. He later officially proposed months later.
Puente de Calicanto de Monguí
Take a stroll to this Spanish colonial-style bridge, considered a Colombian national monument, and have a cup of tinto near the Morro river. The Spaniards had ordered the construction of the Puente de Calicanto as a necessary effort in order to bring the stones necessary to build the Basilica of Our Lady of Monguí, found in the town square. The construction of this bridge started in 1603 by the native Sanoha people and was finished in 1715.
Páramo de Ocetá - Hike
A páramo is a unique ecosystem above the continuous forest line yet below the permanent snowline. The Páramo de Ocetá is considered the most beautiful páramo in the world and one of the national treasures of Colombia. It is known for its many golden shrubs called frailejones, as well as other Andean flora and fauna. Prior to the Spanish conquest, this area was inhabited by the Muisca people, and you can still find ancient folkloric remnants throughout this hike. Please note that this an all-day hike which takes place at a very high altitude, so it may be additionally challenging for this reason. Please let Cris or Gaby know if you would potentially be interested in this hike.
Handmade Soccer Balls
Mongui is famous for the tradition of handmade soccer balls. While bopping around the town, please check out the various stores showing their unique artisanal wares.