Popayán, Colonial city in Cauca Department, Colombia
Located 1760 meters above sea level between two mountain ranges, Popayán features white colonial buildings throughout its historical center.
After its foundation in 1537 by Sebastián de Belalcázar, the city became a major transfer point for gold and resources heading to Spain.
The University of Cauca, established in 1827, maintains Popayán's position as an educational center that produced seventeen Colombian presidents.
Daily flights connect Popayán Guillermo León Valencia Airport to Bogotá, while the Pan-American Highway links the city to Ecuador.
The El Morro del Tulcán pyramid, abandoned before Spanish arrival, indicates the presence of high-status pre-Hispanic settlements in this area.
Location: Cauca Department
Inception: 1537
Founders: Sebastián de Belalcázar
Elevation above the sea: 1,760 m
Website: https://popayan.gov.co
GPS coordinates: 2.45417,-76.60917
Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:11
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