Colombia is a country full of contrasts, where some places seem straight out of a story and others surprise with their aesthetic harmony, to the point of confusing those who visit them. In this case, a small and charming town captivates with its architecture, its stone streets and its attractiveness, so elegant and serene that many come to compare it with a corner of France. Where is it?
Barichara, a picturesque town in the department of Santander, Colombia, is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Founded in 1741, Barichara has maintained its colonial essence with cobblestone streets, adobe houses and red tile roofs, which has earned it recognition as one of the most beautiful towns in the country.
Its aesthetics have led many to compare it with European towns, especially French, due to its buildings and picturesque atmosphere.
The confusion with France lies in the similarity of its colonial architecture with that of certain French towns. As described by Colombia Travelthe white houses with red tile roofs, the cobblestone streets and the orderly layout of the town evoke images of the French countryside.
This aesthetic has attracted international tourists seeking an authentic and visually appealing experience.
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Barichara
Source: Canva
Barichara offers a variety of attractions for visitors. According to TripAdvisorone of the most notable is the Royal Roadan ancient cobblestone route that connects Barichara with the neighboring town of Guane, offering panoramic views of the mountainous landscape
Besides, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conceptionlocated in the main square, is an impressive example of colonial architecture. The Barichara Cemetery, Known for its order and beauty, it is also a place of interest for tourists.
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What is the gastronomy of Barichara like?
The gastronomy of Barichara is another of its great attractions and reflects the cultural richness of the Santander region. In its local restaurants and inns, tourists can enjoy typical dishes such as stewed goat, peeled corn arepa and Santander mute, a thick soup with meats, vegetables and corn.
These traditional flavors are combined with the freshness of local ingredients, offering an authentic and memorable culinary experience.
In addition to traditional food, Barichara has cafes and pastry shops that make homemade sweets, such as guava sandwiches and milk panelitas, perfect to accompany a tour of its cobbled streets.
The gastronomic offer, together with the aesthetics of the town and its quiet atmosphere, allows visitors to enjoy a complete experience that combines history, culture and typical flavors of Colombia.
Where do tourists come to visit Barichara from?
International tourists who visit Barichara usually arrive from the United States, Europe and some Latin American countries, attracted by its aesthetics. The most common way to access it is by taking an international flight to Bogotá or Medellín, the main airports in the country, which receive direct connections from various cities around the world.
Once in Colombia, travelers continue with a domestic flight to Bucaramanga, taking advantage of the Palonegro Airport, which is located a short distance from the town. This combination of international and national flights allows Barichara to be accessible, despite not having its own airport, and facilitates the arrival of tourists looking for authentic experiences outside the most crowded destinations.
Finally, from Bucaramanga, visitors travel approximately 2 to 3 hours by road to reach Barichara, passing through mountainous and picturesque landscapes that make the trip an experience prior to the charm of the town. This land journey not only connects tourists with the destination, but also allows them to appreciate the natural beauty and culture of the Santander region.
