On your trip to Colombia, you cannot miss a visit to what is known as the ‘First Wonder of Colombia’. A place where history, faith and visual wonders come together perfectly 180 metres underground. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is an underground salt mine that dates back to pre-Columbian times and has been the economic engine of the city ever since.
In this article, we tell you the whole story of this incredible enclave, from the ancient Muisca indigenous people to the present day, and share with you everything you need to know to appreciate this site as it deserves. Believe it or not, we are sure you have never seen anything like it.
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What is the Salt Cathedral and where is it?
The Salt Cathedral is located in the municipality of Zipaquirá, in the heart of Colombia, not far north of the capital, Bogotá. More specifically, it is located on Cerro del Zipa.
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In its origins, back in pre-Columbian times, what is known as the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá was a salt deposit, thanks to which the indigenous people of the area became one of the most prosperous societies in the region. Today it is one of the main tourist attractions in the municipality, being an underground temple full of religious images. However, it remains the largest salt rock reserve in the world.
But what led a salt mine to become an underground museum of religious art? We’ll tell you its story later.
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What to do in Zipaquirá besides visiting the Salt Cathedral
Later we will continue talking about the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, as there is much to say about it, but you should know that this municipality has more treasures up its sleeve. It is, in fact, an ideal place for tourists who love history, as walking through its streets you can get closer to the colonial past and the period of independence.
Historic centre of Zipaquirá: main square and colonial architecture
In the centre of Zipaquirá, the clear highlight is the Plaza de los Comuneros, a colonial-style enclave surrounded by important buildings such as the Cathedral, the Bishop’s House, the Palace and the Municipal Council, the Government House and other commercial spaces.
After the Salt Cathedral, this is one of the places you cannot miss in Zipaquirá. Not only does it have great architectural value due to its colonial style, but it also has great historical importance because it was the site of the first revolution in America.
But beyond that, the square is a place to stroll around and admire how it is part of the life of the inhabitants of Zipaquirá. And, of course, this municipality is also a very interesting place to try some of the best Colombian flavours in the different restaurants, especially in the Plaza de la Independencia, where you will find the city’s best leisure options.
If you love Latin American literature, there’s another place you can’t miss in Zipaquirá: the Gabriel García Márquez Cultural Center. It was once the school where the writer finished his secondary studies and where his love for literature and books began. Today it is an art school, but it is open to tourists so that visitors can see its main classroom and the small museum where Gabo’s life is exhibited and the city’s influence on his literature is explained.
History of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
From the Old Salt Mines to the Current Salt Cathedral
It was the pre-Columbian Muisca civilization who discovered this salt deposit and, thanks to it, became one of the richest pre-Columbian societies of their time. But the appearance of the mine as we know it today bears no resemblance to the original; in fact, it didn’t look anything like a cathedral.
The beginnings of the cathedral as we know it date back much later, to 1930. The miners who continued working at the mine built a small chapel in one of the tunnels they used so they could have the Virgin Mary close by during their workday.
Specifically, it was dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary of Guasá, using clay.
Years later, it was decided to expand this small chapel, which was only frequented by the miners and their families on Sundays. However, seepage began to be a problem, and it became unsafe. Therefore, in 1992, a competition was opened for the construction of a new chapel at a greater depth. This is the Cathedral that has survived to this day and gives its name to the enclave, sculpted entirely from salt by 127 miners and holding the second position as the largest underground temple in the world.
What to see in the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is one part; The grand finale of everything there is to see in this mine, as it also contains many more religious buildings.
The first thing you’ll find upon entering the mine is the entrance tunnel, through which you’ll descend into the depths via a series of arches, one after the other, illuminated with striking colours.
Underground Stations of the Cross, Main Naves and Central Dome
The Stations of the Cross is, after the entrance tunnel, the second structure you will encounter on your tour of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. It is composed of 14 stations, each sculpted in salt in different tunnels and representing Jesus’ journey with the Cross.
At the end of this Stations of the Cross, we find the so-called Dome. It is entirely hand-carved and symbolizes the union between heaven and earth. Its most prominent feature is the salt cross, one of the largest in the world, standing at a remarkable 16 meters tall. It is, without a doubt, the heart of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá.
This temple is composed of three naves:
- The Nave of the Nativity, where you can see a manger carved into the rock and a waterfall of crystalline salt.
- The Nave of Life, where the large cross and the main altar are located. This is the most famous image of the underground cathedral, the one that has gone viral worldwide.
- The Nave of Death and Resurrection, houses the “Pietat” sculpture, which symbolizes the end of Christ’s earthly life.
Underground Monumental Museum
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá also houses the world’s first Underground Monumental Art Museum. It’s the perfect place to continue your visual delight with works carved in salt and marble, in this case by different artists from around the world.
Water Mirror, Mapping Show, and Other Underground Experiences
The water mirror is another of the spaces that make up the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. Originally, it was a brine (water saturated with salt from the subsoil). Today, that reservoir remains, but lights have been added around it that reflect in the water, creating an absolutely incredible optical effect, as if it were a void underground.
On the other hand, in the central nave of the Cathedral, a captivating light show is projected every 30 minutes, where you can see colorful shapes drawn on the stone; A true feast for the eyes.
Finally, at the Cathedral you can also enjoy a café for a break, as well as a shopping area where you can pick up a nice souvenir of your visit and a restaurant to recharge.
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Salt Cathedral and Zipaquirá for active travelers
Gentle Hikes and Scenic Viewpoints Around Zipaquirá
Zipaquirá is also a perfect destination for nature lovers and those who enjoy hiking. Although the mines and their history are the town’s biggest draw, it also boasts beautiful natural environments. This is the case with the El Abra Forest Reserve, located just a few minutes from the town center. It’s the perfect place for a hike along its well-marked trails, birdwatching, and a picnic.
Zipa Hill itself, home to the Salt Cathedral, is also an ideal setting for a hike. Plus, its summit offers the best views of Zipaquirá. Finally, very close to the town is the Pionono Ecological Park, which features a viewpoint with incredible vistas of the surrounding hills and the entire Bogotá savanna. Oh! And we also recommend exploring the ecological trails of the Páramo del Guerrero.
Bike routes in Zipaquirá and other adventure activities
Cycling is a very important sport in Zipaquirá, as champion Egan Bernal was born there, as was Efraín Forero Triviño. In total, there are 4 outstanding cycling routes:
- Route of Margaritas Pass in Cogua, for experienced cyclists. It’s 25 km of spectacular scenery with a stop at the summit to appreciate the views.
- San Jorge Pass and Eagle Pass, with exciting curves for adrenaline junkies.
- The route to Laguna Verde, a path to a hidden paradise for the most intrepid cyclists.
- The Neusa Reservoir Route, a more moderate route ideal for those seeking a peaceful and serene ride.
In addition, in Zipaquirá you can also sign up for caving and paragliding activities.
How to get to the Salt Cathedral from Bogotá and other cities
Getting to Zipaquirá by Car: Route, Tolls, and Parking
Located just 50 km from Bogotá, the capital is the ideal starting point for a trip to this town. The drive takes approximately one hour on the Autopista Norte (North Highway) towards Chía-Zipaquirá.
Public Transportation to Zipaquirá: Buses and Connections from Bogotá
From Bogotá’s Portal Norte bus terminal, you can book trips to Zipaquirá with a stop in Chía. It’s a comfortable and economical option that takes about an hour and twenty minutes.
The Sabana Tourist Train to Zipaquirá
This is one of the most unique and special ways to get to Zipaquirá. This tourist train departs from the Sabana Station in Bogotá and offers all travelers a two-hour journey through the beautiful surrounding landscapes. If you’re not in a hurry and want to enjoy a truly sensory experience, Passporter, your travel planner, recommends this option.
Tickets, Hours, and Passport Types for the Salt Cathedral
Visiting Hours and Best Times to Go
The Cathedral can be visited every day of the week (Monday to Sunday) from 9:00 AM to 5:40 PM (when the last entry is allowed). Therefore, if you enter during the last entry time, you will exit the mines around 7:15 PM.
It is generally recommended to arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience inside the mines. There are also usually fewer people on weekdays.
- Don’t miss Things to do on a trip to Bucaramanga, Things to do on a trip to Eje cafetero of Colombia and Things to do on a trip to Villavicencio to complete your trip to Colombia.
Basic, Standard, and Premium Passports: What Each Includes
Tickets to access the Salt Cathedral are called “Passports.” There are three options:
- Basic. Includes admission to the Salt Cathedral, audio guide, Brine Museum, Wi-Fi, mapping projection, 3D short film “Nucuma”, exit train, “Salt Footprints” walk, Archaeological Museum, Monumental Museum 180, Cathedral naves, Ecological Trail, Narthex, Dome, and Reflecting Pool.
- Standard: Includes everything in the basic pass plus a city tour and the Tutankhamun Museum.
- Premium: Includes everything in the basic and standard passes, plus the Miner’s Route and the Climbing Wall.
Tips for visiting the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
What to bring, recommended footwear, and underground temperature
In the mines, the temperature is usually cool and constant, so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket for the entire tour. As for footwear, it’s essential that it’s comfortable to enjoy the entire underground tour; also, the terrain can be quite uneven at times.
On the other hand, don’t forget your camera or have your mobile phone ready, as photography is allowed in most areas of the Salt Cathedral (although there are restricted areas).
Services at the Salt Cathedral: guides, audio guides and extras
Audio guides are included in all passes and are available in different languages. But if you’d like more comprehensive and personalized explanations, you can hire a professional guide to accompany you and your group throughout the tour.
In addition, pet strollers, baby strollers, access to the climbing wall, parking, and lockers are also available for an extra charge.
Visit the Salt Cathedral with children, seniors, or people with reduced mobility
Children have a special rate reduced, as well as for those over 60 (except in the Premium fare where everyone pays the adult fare). In addition, children under 4 years old can enter for free, and Colombians also enjoy a discounted rate on all three types of tickets.
People with reduced mobility can request a wheelchair free of charge to comfortably enjoy the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
Visitors typically take around two hours to complete the tour, But that’s something very personal. In any case, there is no time limit, and within opening hours, you can stay as long as you like, both in the underground area and the outdoor area.
The design was commissioned to the Colombian architect Roswell Garavito Pearl.
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