10 fun and interesting Colombia facts

1. No Traditional Four Seasons!

Colombia is a unique country in that it does not experience the traditional four seasons like many other countries. This is because it is located close to the equator, meaning that it receives sunlight all year round. This means that the climate in Colombia is generally warm and humid, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C. This makes Colombia an ideal destination for those looking for a tropical getaway, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures all year round.

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2. The Name That Tributes Columbus: A History of Colombia

The name Colombia is a tribute to the famous explorer Christopher Columbus, who is credited with discovering the Americas in 1492. The name was first used in 1819 when the United Provinces of New Granada declared their independence from Spain. It was officially adopted as the name of the Republic of Colombia in 1886. The name is derived from the Latin form of Columbus' name, 'Columbus', which means 'dove'.

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3. The Magnificent 3000: Colombia's Outstanding Butterfly Population

Colombia is home to an astonishing 3000 out of the 14000 known species of butterflies, making it one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. This incredible variety of butterflies is a testament to the country's unique climate and geography, which provide the perfect conditions for these delicate creatures to thrive. Experts believe that Colombia's butterfly population is a key indicator of the health of its ecosystems, and that its conservation is essential for the preservation of its natural beauty.

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4. The Emerald Jewel of Colombia

Colombia is renowned for its production of some of the world's most sought-after and expensive emeralds, with the country responsible for an impressive 60% of the global supply. These precious stones are highly prized for their unique colour and clarity, and are often used in jewellery and other luxury items. Colombia's emeralds are mined from the country's many emerald-rich regions, including the Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez mines, which are some of the oldest and most productive in the world.

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5. Shakira and Gabriel Garcia Marquez: Two Colombian Legends

Colombia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and is the birthplace of many famous people, including the renowned singer Shakira and Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Shakira is known for her unique style of music, which combines Latin, rock, and Middle Eastern influences, while Marquez is celebrated for his magical realism writing style, which has been widely acclaimed and translated into many languages. Both of these individuals have made a lasting impact on the world, and their Colombian roots are a source of pride for the nation.

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6. Land of Freedom and Bravery

Colombia is a unique country in South America, as it is the only one with access to both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans. This gives Colombia a unique advantage, as it allows for trade and travel between the two oceans, as well as access to a variety of different cultures and resources. Additionally, the country's location provides a great opportunity for tourism, as it is home to a variety of different climates and landscapes, from the tropical Caribbean coast to the rugged Andes mountains.

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7. The Impact of the Right to Vote on Colombian Politics

In 1975, Colombian women were granted a long-awaited right - the right to vote. This was a major milestone in the fight for gender equality in Colombia, as it allowed women to have a say in the political process and to have their voices heard. This was a major step forward for the country, as it allowed women to become more involved in the decision-making process and to have a greater influence on the direction of the country. This was a major victory for the women's rights movement in Colombia, and it has had a lasting impact on the country's political landscape.

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8. Colombia's Official Currency: 100 Centavos

Colombia's official currency is the Columbian Peso, which is divided into 100 centavos. The Columbian Peso has been in circulation since 1837 and is the legal tender of the country. It is available in coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos, as well as banknotes of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 pesos. The Columbian Peso is also used in the nearby countries of Ecuador and Panama.

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9. Highest Peak in Pico Cristobal Colon

Standing at an impressive 5797 meters, Pico Cristobal Colon is the highest peak in Colombia. Located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range, this peak is the highest point in the country and the highest coastal mountain in the world. It is also the fifth most prominent peak in the world, with a prominence of 4,700 meters.

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10. The 64 Native Tongues of Colombia

Colombia is a culturally diverse country, with Spanish being the official language. However, there are an impressive 64 Native tongues still in use, including languages such as Wayuu, Embera, and Kogui. These languages are spoken by the various indigenous communities that have been living in Colombia for centuries, and are an important part of the country's cultural heritage.