The currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso, introduced into circulation in 1837. 1)
Considered the highest peak in Colombia is Pico Cristóbal Colón. Located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta massif, the mountain was named after the sailor Christopher Columbus. The top of the mountain is covered with eternal snow. 2)
The flag of Colombia, which is rectangular in shape, consists of three horizontal stripes. The top one, which is yellow in color, has a width equal to the common width of the other two stripes. The other two are blue and red. The yellow symbolizes the richness of the Colombian land, the blue refers to the sea and ocean surrounding the country, and the red commemorates the sacrifices and bloodshed in the effort to liberate Colombia from Spanish influence. 3)
Colombia became independent on August 7, 1819. 4)
It is estimated that about 10% of Colombia's national income comes from drug production. Some sources say that the country's drug market is worth $10 billion. 5)
On November 13, 1985, the Nevado del Ruiz volcano erupted, killing more than 28,000 people. The cataclysm completely destroyed the city of Armero and is considered one of the largest volcano-related eruptions of the 20th century. 6)
A species of ant has been discovered in the north of the country and found to be edible. Although Colombians do not belong to a nation that eats insects, in this case, they make an exception. The ants reportedly resemble peanuts in taste. 7)
The Colombian economy is driven by emerald production - about 60% of the world's reserves come from this country. It is mined in Boyaca, among other places. 8)
Colombian workers can count on 18 public holidays each year. India has the same number of public holidays - the two countries with the most public holidays in the world. 9)
Colombians are a very patriotic nation. The country's anthem is played every day on the radio and television at 6:00 am and 6:00 pm. 10)
World-famous singer Shakira is originally from Colombia. 11)
The people of Colombia mainly eat changua, a soup made of eggs, milk, and onions. 12)
Arepa is a type of small tortilla made from corn flour. It is usually eaten plain but is often stuffed with a variety of ingredients. 13)
A particularly popular soup in the Bogotá area is ajiaco - a potato soup with chicken and corn, sometimes served with cream. 14)
Colombians have a special kind of cheese that they dip in chocolate and then eat. 15)