Santa Fe de Antioquia is History

Santa Fe de Antioquia is one of the oldest towns in Colombia. It was founded on March 14, 1541, by Jorge Robledo, a Spanish conquistador who was exploring the area in search of gold. The town was originally called “Santa Fe,” but it later became known as “Santa Fe de Antioquia” to distinguish it from other towns with the same name.

Santa Fe de Antioquia was the capital of the Antioquia province until the mid-19th century, and it played an important role in the region’s history. Today, it is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and its status as a national monument of Colombia.

Santa Fe de Antioquia is undoubtedly our favorite and most convenient day trip from Medellin.

Things to do in Santa Fe de Antioquia

Keep reading to find itineraries, walking tours, restaurants, and cafe recommendations in Santa Fe de Antioquia.

Photo courtesy of Bob Carey Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Family-friendly plans in Santa Fe de Antioquia

  • Restaurants
  • Hotels
  • Experiences
  • Coffee Shops & Ice Cream

Spend a Romantic Day for Two in Santa Fe de Antioquia

— Maps, Restaurants, Hotels

Picture-Perfect Moments in Santa Fe de Antioquia

Only one-hour from Medellin, Santa Fe de Antioquia is a special place in Colombia for several reasons. Here are a few:

Colonial Architecture: The town has one of the best-preserved collections of colonial architecture in Colombia. Its historic center is a national monument and is full of stunning buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Fe de Antioquia, the Church of San Francisco, and the Bridge of the West.

Historical Significance: Santa Fe de Antioquia played an important role in the history of the Antioquia province and Colombia as a whole. It was the first capital of Antioquia and served as an important center of commerce and culture for the region.

Natural Beauty: The town is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush hills and mountains. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the countryside and take part in outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and swimming.

Cultural Traditions: Santa Fe de Antioquia has a rich cultural heritage, including music, dance, and gastronomy. It is known for its traditional music genre called “banda,” which features brass instruments and percussion. The town also has a famous dessert called “envueltos,” which are sweet treats made from plantains, cheese, and panela.

Overall, Santa Fe de Antioquia is a charming town with a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. It’s definitely worth a visit for anyone traveling to Medellin or the Antioquia region.

There are absolutely no rules of architecture for a castle in the clouds and this is real.

— Gilbert K. Chesterton

Walking Tour of Santa Fe (map coming soon)

  • Churches of Santa Fe de Antioquia Walking Tour
  • Cafes and Desert
  • Restaurants
  • Hotels
  • Private finca (villas) rentals and concierge experiences