It unites two departments and was declared a National Monument.
News Colombia.
Most Colombian towns keep unique stories, but few preserve as much living memory as Honda, Tolima. This municipality, known as “City of Peace” or “City of Bridges”, is one of the most emblematic destinations in the north of this department.
Honda surprises with its colonial architecture. Its streets evoke old Cartagena and even Andalusian landscapes, which has made the municipality a growing attraction within the tourism industry. The presence of the Magdalena River, which “lulls your dream and your hope,” completes a landscape full of history and tradition.
Among its heritage jewels, the Navarro Bridge stands out. With more than 100 years of history, it is considered the oldest suspension bridge in South America. It was declared a National Monument in 1994 by Decree 936 thanks to “its technical and aesthetic merits and the relevance that this important work of engineering has had for National history.”
The construction of the bridge took place between 1894 and 1898. It was inaugurated on January 16, 1899 and connects the departments of Tolima and Cundinamarca. According to the Government of Tolima, it was purchased in New York from the same company that built the one in San Francisco.
In its first years, the Government granted the bridge a concession for 99 years, allowing the collection of tolls depending on the type of load. However, this model was short-lived due to the outbreak of the Thousand Days War, which changed conditions. Its cantilever-type iron and steel structure with a cornice measures 167.65 meters long, 5.20 meters wide and reaches a height of 18.30 meters above the river.
Other emblematic treasures of Honda, Tolima: Calle de las Trampas and its historic cathedral
Another emblematic place of this municipality is Calle de las Trampas. It is characterized by its colorful colonial houses and its zigzag topography, with stone floors that evoke Andalusian constructions. It was a residential area of wealthy families, where the famous two-story “tall houses” were built, owned by the main merchants.
In this sector, slopes such as Zaldúa, Owen and San Francisco converge, as well as traditional alleys such as San José and La Broma. Its conservation makes it a must-see for those seeking to explore the architectural history of Honda.
The cultural wealth of the municipality is also reflected in the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary. According to history, “its construction began in 1652, a work financed with tolls on the Magdalena River and contributions from neighbors. The master of masonry and stonemasonry was Blas de Salas, the work consisted of three naves 108 feet long and its cost was 3,500 pesos.”
With the growth of the port and the population, it was necessary to expand the temple. For this reason, “the increase in population and the activity of the port: Led to the need to repair and expand the parish church. In 1731, 3,500 patacones were collected, Father Baltasar de Caicedo of the Company of Jesus and Messrs. Francisco de Tordecillas and Francisco Javier de Andrada were appointed as directors of the work.”
On October 7, 1989, the temple was consecrated as the Cathedral of the Lebanon–Honda Diocese. Its patron saint’s day is celebrated every August 24 and continues to be a meeting point for the community.
@culturayturismotolima Visit Honda, Tolima! 🌊🏛️ Stroll through its colonial streets and let yourself be carried away by history while the majestic Magdalena River accompanies you. This heritage municipality of Colombia 🇨🇴 is an ideal destination for lovers of warm weather and adventure. 🤩@gobernaciondeltolima @Alexander Castro ♬ I Went on Vacation – Bad Bunny
Today, Honda continues to establish itself as a jewel of heritage tourism in Colombia. Its history, its colonial streets, its centuries-old bridges and its link with Magdalena make it an ideal destination for those seeking culture, architecture and living memory.
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