Ibagué, Capital city in Tolima Department, Colombia
Ibagué is the capital of Tolima Department and sits in the central cordillera of the Colombian Andes at roughly 1285 meters above sea level. The city spreads across several valleys surrounded by mountains, with views toward Nevado del Tolima, a snow-capped volcano to the west.
Spanish captain Andrés López de Galarza founded the settlement on October 14, 1550, but moved it to its present location in 1551 after facing resistance from indigenous groups. Over the centuries, the town grew into an important trade and administrative center for the region.
The Conservatory of Tolima stands as a primary institution for musical education, reinforcing the city's status as Colombia's musical capital.
Perales Airport offers daily connections to Bogotá and Medellín, and the bus terminal provides routes to most major cities across the country. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, though it helps to prepare for changing weather conditions at this elevation.
The local textile industry ranks among the three largest in Colombia and employs thousands in manufacturing and distribution. In addition, the Conservatory of Tolima is known nationwide and helps explain why the city is often called the musical capital of Colombia.
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