An 18th century gem that seems straight out of a fairy tale
News Colombia.
Between mountains and green landscapes of Boyacá, hides an architectural jewel that seems taken from the most famous stories of the Brothers Grimm.
In the municipality of Chiquinquirá stands the Olympus Castlea building with almost three centuries of history that, despite its state of abandonment, continues to arouse the curiosity of travelers, photographers and researchers
Its imposing structure, its legends and its mysterious aura have caused many to describe it as the Brothers Grimm castle that few know in Colombia.
According to various sources, the Olympus Castle was built in 1792 by Jose de la Parraa wealthy landowner in the region.
Although no detailed official records are preserved, some historians point out that the building was inaugurated between 1820 and 1849in the middle of the republican era.
Its design breaks with the typical colonial aesthetic of the Boyacá highlands: a mix of Spanish and Yugoslavian influences which is manifested in the wide columns, the semicircular arches and the majestic halls that still stand.
In its heyday, the castle was a symbol of greatness. It had wide corridors, carved wooden floors and windows that offered panoramic views of the Boyacá fields.
Today, although time has left deep marks, its presence remains imposing, as if it still guarded secrets from other times.
The Olympus Castle not only stands out for its age, but also for its unusual style in the Colombian context.
The thick walls, side towers and ornate arches evoke European castles of the 17th and 18th centuries. These characteristics have led to comparisons with the residences that appear in classic fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel either Cinderella.
It is no coincidence that many visitors describe it as “a piece of Europe lost in the heart of Boyacá”.
Legends that feed its mystery
One of the most popular tells that the place was a gift from a landowner to his wife, who would have betrayed him with one of the farm workers.
After the scandal, the castle would have been abandoned, and over time rumors arose about apparitions, inexplicable noises and strange activities.
Several residents of the area claim to have heard screams, steps and silhouettes that appear from the windows overnight. Even some visitors—like the content creator Kevin Bolañoswho explored the castle in a video posted on YouTube—claim to have felt a “observing presence” as they walked through the ruined halls.
“Walking through it is like entering a fairy tale, but also as if something ancient was watching you“Bolaños commented after his visit.
Despite its state of abandonment, Olympus Castle has become a reference point for lovers of photography, architecture and destinations with history.
Its location, surrounded by mountains and nature, offers an almost cinematic atmosphere. Travelers who visit it usually do so on their own, although it is recommended do not enter without authorizationsince it is private property and part of the structure presents risks of deterioration.
Local guides suggest admiring it from the outside and taking advantage of the visit to Chiquinquirá to visit other attractions, such as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosaryhe Los Currucuyes Ecotourism Park and the Rómulo Rozo Palace of Culture.
The future of Olympus Castle depends on the collective will of preserve the historical heritage of Boyacá. Although it is not officially declared as an asset of cultural interest, its architectural and symbolic value is incalculable.
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