Montebello

Montebello is a municipality in the Colombian Andes located at about 2,350 meters elevation, surrounded by coffee plantations and farmland across rolling terrain. The landscape consists of gentle mountains where residents cultivate coffee and other crops on hillside plots.

The settlement was founded in 1619 under the name Sabaletas and became an important trading link between the colonial provinces of Antioquia and Popayán. This location made it a key crossroads in early regional development.

The Church of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes dominates the main plaza and shows how faith shapes daily community life here. Locals gather for celebrations and religious holidays that mark the rhythm of the year.

Visitors reach Montebello from Medellín by following the road to Santa Bárbara and then taking the Zarcitos trail through the mountains. The journey passes through changing elevations, so travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions.

Since 1997, Milenio Stéreo radio station broadcasts from here and reaches listeners across several neighboring regions. This small radio network connects the scattered mountain villages together.

Location: Antioquia Department

Capital city: Montebello

Elevation above the sea: 2,350 m

Website: http://montebello-antioquia.gov.co/sitio.shtml

GPS coordinates: 5.94472,-75.52389

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:45