Colombia's historic town: Jerico
The town of Jerico in Colombia, considered the homeland of leather in Latin America, is visited by thousands of locals and foreigners every year.
AA
Located in the Antioquia department, Jerico is situated 112 kilometers from Medellin, the country's second-largest city.
The town, where world-famous traditional leather bags, wallets, and belts are produced, was declared a "Cultural Heritage of the Nation" by the Congress of the Republic on June 20, 2021.
Known as the "Athens of the Southwest" due to the significant economic and cultural development it has shown since its founding, Jerico is also cited as a top destination for travelers.
The town, which immediately captures the attention of visitors with its colorful colonial houses dating back to the Spanish colonial era and its graffiti-covered walls, also reflects a nostalgic atmosphere with its cobblestone streets.
Increasing its popularity day by day, Jerico also makes a significant contribution to the country's religious tourism.
MAIN PLACES TO VISIT
Las Nubes Nature Park, the Botanical Garden, the Museum of Religious Art, the Cathedral of Mercedes, the San Francisco Church, the House of Saint Laura, the Mirador (viewpoint), and coffee plantations stand out as the most visited places in the town.
Those who want to discover the panoramic view of the city of Jerico climb the 15-minute slope to the hill where the "Christ the Savior" statue is located.
Visitors who rest here for a while both enjoy the view and take plenty of photos.
Those who go to the museum house of Saint Laura Montoya, who is considered sacred by the people of Antioquia and the region, witness the story of the town.
In the Jerico Archaeological Museum, historical artifacts unearthed from the pre-Christopher Columbus era are exhibited.
It is estimated that the first inhabitants of Jerico were the "Catia" and "Caramanta" indigenous peoples.
WORLD-FAMOUS COLOMBIAN COFFEE
Local and foreign tourists who complete their trip to Jerico do not leave without tasting the world-famous Colombian coffee served in the town's historic square.
Rich in biological and natural beauty, the town also offers participants the opportunity to see hiking trails and coffee farms.
'WE PROMISE PEACE AND TRANQUILITY'
Dario Arenas, the tourism representative for the town of Jerico, stated in an interview with an AA reporter that they host visitors from all over the world.
Stating that they try to represent the town in the best way possible, Arenas said, "Those who come here are amazed by our leather products; the appearance of our town was even minted on a coin by the central bank. We promise our visitors peace and tranquility."
THE STORY OF LEATHER BAGS DATES BACK 100 YEARS
Jerico's most popular accessories, handmade leather bags and wallets, are produced here and then exported to all corners of the world.
Leather goods producer Victor Uruguena said that the town was actually famous for its coffee farms and delicious avocados, but that this changed over time.
Explaining that they have been producing traditional leather bags and wallets for about 15 years, Uruguena said, "The story of the leather bags dates back 100 years. After coffee merchants sold their products, they needed sturdy bags to keep their money safe. The merchants traveled all over the country with these leather bags, and their quality became known throughout the country over time."
Uruguena noted that they produce leather bags in extraordinary shapes and export them to many parts of the world.