A small town located in the heart of Boyacá has managed to project the world thanks to recognition that distinguishes it as one of the best scenarios for Enjoy the cleanest and most spectacular night skies. Where is it?
It is a privileged natural environment that gained international prestige between travelers, scientists and astronomy lovers thanks to its low light pollution and the altitude of the region, since it has become a world reference for astronomical observation.
The Boyacense municipality of Villa de Leyva was certified in March as a Starlight Tourist Destination, a distinction granted by the Starlight Foundation which positions it in a select group of territories committed to the protection of the night sky.
As the site of this entity stands out, the title makes it one of the best scenarios in Latin America for the observation of constellations, planets and other celestial bodies.
Its location more than 2,000 meters above sea leveldry climate and low light pollution guarantee clear skies of most of the year. To this is added the proximity of El Infiernito, former Muisca Observatory that testifies to the ancestral relationship of the region with astronomy.
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Leyva Villa: Magic day and night
Source: Canva
As part of the strategy promoted by the municipality, Villa de Leyva has a wide astronomical offer that goes from observatories such as Zaquencipáwith talks and workshops for all audiences, to the traditional Asasac Astronomy Festival, which since 1997 brings together scientists, fans and tourists around the stars. In addition, accommodations like Sol Muisca have received the Starlight seal, reinforcing the local commitment to sustainable tourism.
With the Starlight certification, this people not only reaffirm its value as a historical and cultural heritage, but also consolidates as a privileged destination for those who seek to touch the sky with their hands and discover, from the Boyacense earth, the immensity of the universe.
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What places are unmissable from Villa Leyva?
Villa de Leyva is a destination full of history, colonial architecture and spectacular nature. Here I leave you a list of unmissable places to visit, with different types of plans:
1. Plaza Mayor
It is one of the largest cobbled squares in South America. Surrounded by colonial houses and cafes, it is the ideal meeting point to enjoy the historical environment and contemplate architecture.
2. Terracotta house
Known as “the world’s largest house in the world”, it is a totally artisanal clay construction. Its organic design and its curved forms make it unique and perfect to travel inside and out.
3. El Fósil Museum
It houses the almost complete skeleton of a large Kronosaurus reptile, in addition to an impressive collection of fossils that show the geological history of the region.
4. Blue wells
They are small lagoons of turquoise waters that contrast with the semi -desert landscape. Ideal for walking and taking pictures, they offer a surprising natural scenario a few minutes from the center.
5. NATIONAL NATURAL PARK IGUAQUE
A sacred dirty reserve for the Muiscas, with trails that lead to the Iguaque lagoon. It is perfect for those who enjoy ecotourism and seek an experience of connection with nature.
