The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

This magnificent salt mine is located in the municipality of Zipaquirá, in the department of Cundinamarca. It is embedded in the Zipa Hill (the highest indigenous chief), at 2,652 meters above sea level and has an average temperature of 14ºC. In the mine, you can visit the stations of the Stations of the Cross under the effect of colorful lights.

A cultural and spiritual heritage

The exploitation of this mine has a history that spans pre-Columbian times, crosses colonial and republican periods, and continues to make history today. It was the ancient Muisca indigenous people who first benefited from this vast salt deposit and became one of the most prosperous pre-Hispanic societies of their time.

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, known as the "First Wonder of Colombia", is a symbol of ingenuity and spirituality of the Colombian people. Built inside the tunnels of a salt mine, this majestic underground temple is located 180 meters underground and is the largest salt rock reserve in the world. Since its inauguration in 1995 (when 250 thousand tons of rock salt were extracted), the cathedral has become an important pilgrimage center and one of the most visited tourist destinations in Zipaquirá, attracting travelers from all over the world looking for a unique experience.

A spiritual journey through the Stations of the Cross

Upon entering the mine, the mineral smell and darkness take over everything. Then, a light show reveals the carved rock and tunnels that house the Stations of the Cross. At the end, there are access to three naves: the birth and baptism nave, the life and death nave, and the resurrection nave, each with an altar. These feature beautifully carved sculptures by miners and sculptors, including the "Pietà," whose face has strong indigenous features. Also, the Guardian Angel, carved in 1950 by the Italian sculptor Ludovico Consorte.

One of the highlights of the visit to the Salt Cathedral is the tour through the 14 Stations of the Cross, each carved in salt and stone. The combination of sculptures, colorful lights, and the natural acoustics of the mine creates a solemn and mystical atmosphere. The tour ends in the impressive central dome, where a lit salt cross stands, one of the largest in the world at 16 meters high. This symbol, standing as a testament to faith, is the heart of the cathedral and a place of prayer and reflection for many.

Another place you must see is the water mirror, formerly a brine (a place for salting), surrounded by lights that reflect in the still water, creating a fascinating optical effect that makes it look like you are swimming in an underground void.

How to get to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

Zipaquirá, also known as the "City of Salt," is only 50 kilometers from Bogotá, the capital of Colombia. Getting there from Bogotá is easy, and there are several transportation options:

• Tourist Train: One of the most picturesque ways to reach Zipaquirá is aboard the tourist train departing from the Estación de la Sabana in Bogotá. This two-hour journey offers beautiful views of the Cundinamarca landscape and is an experience in itself.
• Car: If you prefer to drive, you can take the North Highway towards Chía-Zipaquirá and follow the signs to Zipaquirá. The trip takes approximately one hour.
• Bus: From the Salitre Transport Terminal or outside the Transmilenio Portal Norte station, you can take a direct bus to Zipaquirá, which takes between 60 and 90 minutes.

Recommendations to keep in mind

• Clothing and footwear: The temperature inside the mine is constant and cool, so it's recommended to wear a light jacket. Comfortable footwear is essential as the tour includes walking on uneven terrain.
• Hours: The Salt Cathedral is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:40 p.m. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
• Guides and audio guides: Opt for a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the history and symbolism of the cathedral. Audio guides are also available in several languages for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
• Photography: Don't forget your camera; the Salt Cathedral offers countless opportunities to capture stunning images. However, respect the areas where photography is restricted.

Things to do in Zipaquirá: beyond the Cathedral

After visiting the Salt Cathedral, Zipaquirá has much more to explore. This charming municipality of Cundinamarca is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, its squares, and cobblestone streets that invite a peaceful stroll. Don't miss the Plaza de los Comuneros, a historic place where important independence movements were initiated in Colombia. Additionally, Zipaquirá has several restaurants offering traditional Colombian food, perfect for enjoying after a day of exploration.

You might be interested in: Adventure activities in Cundinamarca

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a monument of faith, history, and culture that resonates deeply with all who visit. From its impressive underground architecture to its rich history, the cathedral is a testament to human ingenuity and spirituality. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this iconic destination.

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