Santa Fe de Antioquia, Colonial administrative division in Western Antioquia, Colombia
Santa Fe de Antioquia is a municipality in Western Antioquia, Colombia, spreading across mountainous land between the Cauca and Tonusco rivers. Its streets show colonial construction throughout, with white facades, wooden balconies, and courtyards marked by thick walls and adobe bricks.
Jorge Robledo founded the settlement in 1541 under the name Villa de Santafé, and King Philip II of Spain granted it city status just four years later. It served as the regional capital until the 19th century, later losing this role to Medellín.
The Metropolitan Cathedral, constructed in 1799, represents the religious heritage of the municipality and maintains regular Catholic services for the local population.
The Túnel de Occidente from 2006 shortens the drive from Medellín significantly, making the approach easier. Most buildings in the center can be reached on foot, with streets mostly cobbled, requiring solid footwear.
The Colombian government declared the entire municipality a National Monument in 1960, recognizing the preservation of its colonial streets and buildings. This recognition makes it one of the few municipalities in the country with such comprehensive protection status.
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