Ráquira, in the department of Boyacá, reveals another facet of Colombía—one of breathtaking countryside. Ráquira is a charming town with rolling hills stretching to the horizon, a kaleidoscopic urban landscape, a striking monastery, and the trails of the Rio Via Dulce.

A genuine artisan hub of Colombian territory, it showcases the craftsmanship of the Muisca people. The pottery, sculptures, and jewelry of Ráquira are sublime and utterly distinctive in the country.

A Glimpse into History

Centuries before Colombia's colonization, this region was home to the Muisca indigenous people. At the site of today's Ráquira stood their village of Taquira. This small settlement was renowned for its pottery and craftsmanship: thanks to the abundance of clay in the surrounding areas, the Muisca were masters of modeling.

It was on March 11, 1537 that conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada first crossed the valley, marking the beginning of the region's colonization. A few years later, Father Francisco de Orejuela arrived in this corner of Colombia on an evangelical mission. On October 18, 1580, he founded the town of Ráquira.

The village inhabitants subsequently refined their craftsmanship to trade with foreign merchants. This know-how has been preserved to this day and remains one of the locals' principal sources of income.

Exploring Ráquira

The road to Ráquira winds through a singular landscape—the Colombian countryside, with boundless rolling hills and lush greenery. The "pottery town" gradually emerges on the horizon. Comprising roughly a hundred buildings, the town is modest in scale yet captivates with its picturesque character.

The colonial-style houses feature period balconies, ceramic tiles, and are often painted in extravagant hues, transforming Ráquira into a genuine rainbow-colored town.

The municipality's most significant monument is the Iglesia de San Antonio. With a striking facade echoing Carmelite colors, the church boasts an equally vibrant and welcoming interior. The adjoining public plaza displays numerous ceramic statues, offering a preview of the local population's artisan talent.

Throughout the town, countless craft shops showcase original works. Among them are ceramics bearing mysterious patterns reminiscent of Muisca culture, toys, jewelry, baskets, bags, and even hammocks in Colombian colors.

In Ráquira, cross the Puente de las Animas to enjoy the scenery and reach the Patio de brujas. This traditional astronomical observatory features a sundial and totems arranged in a circle.

Heading south, you can visit the beautiful La Candelaria Monastery. Founded by Augustinian monks in 1597, this peaceful sanctuary is a genuine testament to the past. With its old-world paved squares, Spanish-style architecture, magnificent interior courtyards, small museum, and period furnishings, it's the ideal place for spiritual retreat.

What to Do in Ráquira

Attend the Ráquira el Festival de Cargueros

This celebration is the town's flagship event. During the Festival de Cargueros, the entire population parades through the streets carrying pottery—a way to celebrate and honor this ancestral art inherited from the Muisca. The event typically takes place in November.

Hike Along the Rio Via Dulce

If you enjoy hiking, stroll along the rocky trails that follow the Rio Via Dulce. You can admire local vegetation and encounter several waterfalls including El Anillo, Chispiadero, and Dantas.

Shop for Treasures

Craftsmanship lies at Ráquira's heart, a town of countless shops. You'll find dresses, pottery, jewelry, and kitchen utensils adorned with original motifs. The Sunday Market is perfect for discovering hidden gems. You can attend a pottery workshop.

Practical Information

Getting to Ráquira

To reach Ráquira, you can take a regional bus from Tunja's bus station or Villa de Leyva. The journey takes a few hours and costs around 6,000 Colombian pesos. Some regional buses from Bogotá also serve the municipality.

Once in Ráquira, you can hire a taxi or join a tour bus.