Barranquilla, Colombia | The Renowned History
Traveling to Barranquilla, Colombia, will be more worthwhile if you know about its renowned history. This will allow you to have a better understanding of how the city evolved into becoming a vital part in the economic industry of the country. Other than that, you will get to appreciate and learn certain historical facts about Colombia as well.
Located along the mouth of the famous Magdalena River, Barranquilla is referred to as the Golden Gate of Colombia for its role in being the largest and most important maritime port in the country. They transport goods in and out of the country through the Magdalena river. Here, many can find a lot of opportunities for employment due to the several productions and manufacturing surrounding the port area. This was also where the first airline in the Americas originated, which was formerly called SCADTA and known today as Avianca.
Unlike other Colombian cities, Barranquilla was declared a town in 1813 by Manuel Rodriguez Torices, who was the president-governor of the Free State of Cartagena de Indias. This was considered a celebration and award for the town and its people in supporting the pro-independence forces during the time of Simon Bolívar’s campaign to liberate New Granada, which is also known as the era in which the Colombian and Venezuelan wars of independence took place.
You’ll find in Colombian history that Barranquilla has received massive support in the economy from a group of immigrants, mostly Arabs and Jews, who engaged in a number of commercial projects which added more value to the country’s resources and financial system. This mostly occurred during the late 19th century.
Toward the 20th century, especially since the operation of Puerto Colombia, the city began to develop substantially and became one of the most important ports that ship various goods and other industrial products. In 1905, Barranquilla finally had its own chamber of commerce.
Over the years, this economic boom has not only attracted the attention of neighboring cities within the country. Soon enough, Barranquilla was able to gain an amount of foreign capital from the United States, Italy, Germany, and nations within the Middle East. Today, the city is now thriving and continues to lure numerous foreign investors and not to mention tourists and visitors—most of whom are also very interested to meet and fall in love with gorgeous Barranquilla singles.
It’s also an important factor to consider that the reputation of beautiful Barranquilla women are part of the reason that Colombia is always welcoming foreigners who wish to visit various tourist destinations and attractions in the country aside from the interest of finding a lovely woman to date or even marry.
The Growth and Development of Barranquilla, Colombia
When you get the chance to travel to this city, keep in mind to have some helpful itinerary tips in hand in order to ensure yourself of a safe, convenient, and memorable trip. Now that you know a little bit about Barranquilla and how it also plays a role in the history of Colombia, there are a few other exciting things about this city that you can indulge yourself in.
The famous and esteemed Barranquilla Carnival, also known as Carnaval de Barranquilla, is the second largest and most celebrated carnival in the world next to that of Rio de Janeiro’s. It is usually held four days before Holy Month, particularly on Ash Wednesday, with months’ worth of preparation for the several festivities, floats, costumes, food, and dancing which will be taking place during the event. This is ultimately one of the things that locals and foreigners look forward to when visiting the city.
Being able to witness vibrant cultures and traditions come to life as people gather together to enjoy annual tributes based on certain themes that they decide to celebrate is part of what makes this event so special and exceedingly momentous. There are also events that are celebrated even before the carnival begins: the La Guacherna, desfile del Carnaval de Los Niños, and the Coronación Reina del Carnaval.
As a result of how prestigious the Barranquilla Carnival is, it’s been named by UNESCO as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2003, and declared as a Cultural Masterpiece of the Nation by the country’s National Congress in 2002. They even have their own slogan which goes, “Those who live it are those who enjoy it.”
Although some may view this celebration merely as an event for Colombians to go partying, this is actually one of the most impressive showcases that signifies the rich history and culture of Colombia starting from its era of independence all the way to the influences of modern day traditions.
So as you begin your journey in learning about the renowned history of Barranquilla, Colombia, take delight in being part of the prominent Barranquilla Carnival which you will surely have a memorable experience of a lifetime!