SALT CATHEDRAL IN ZIPAQUIRA

Explore Colombia’s first Wonder: Zipaquirá’s unique Salt Cathedral

What’s so special about it, and how do you get to the single most impressive and largest religious building in the world?

Considered Colombia’s foremost tourist wonder, the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá is one of the country’s most emblematic tourist destinations, located some 45 kilometers north of Bogotá by road. This architectural and spiritual marvel, built in the tunnels of a former salt mine still in operation, offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors from all over the world. It combines historical, architectural and religious tourism.

A unique underground cathedral

This religious edifice is dug 180 metres underground with a gigantic 16-metre-high cross, deep into the salt mountain of Zipaquirá. Our bilingual guide will explain the history of this impressive edifice, which combines human ingenuity and natural beauty to create an extraordinary place of worship and contemplation.

• Architecture & Design: The cathedral comprises three main naves, each adorned with sculptures and crosses carved from salt. The play of light and open spaces create a mystical, serene atmosphere, ideal for reflection, prayer or simply for the beauty of this human masterpiece.
• Way of the Cross: Visitors can follow an illuminated Way of the Cross, representing the fourteen stations of Christ’s Passion. Each station is beautifully sculpted, offering a profound and emotional spiritual experience.
• Dome and Main Altar: The central dome and main altar are highlights of the visit, with sculptures and reliefs depicting biblical scenes and religious symbols.

Attractions and Experiences

The Salt Basilica offers a variety of attractions and experiences to enrich your visit.

• Light and Sound Show: Impressive audiovisual shows highlight the beauty of the salt formations and the unique architecture of this temple, creating a magical atmosphere.
• The Miner’s Route: a fully immersive experience where you can step into the shoes of a miner equipped with a real miner’s helmet, pickaxe and extract your own salt.
• Salt Museum: Discover the history of salt mining in Colombia and its economic and cultural importance through interactive and educational exhibits.
• Parc de la Sel: Outside the cathedral, the “Parc de la Sal” offers hiking trails, gardens and picnic areas.

Private tour of the Nemocón mine

Just 30 minutes away, a few blocks from the main park and up the main street, this attraction offers you the chance to deepen your knowledge of the salt extraction process, by visiting the Nemocón salt mine. Allow 1h30 for your visit with our guide, who will be delighted to accompany you along the 1,500m of gallery to recount the history of the mine. You’ll have the chance to see enormous stalagmites along the way, as well as underground waterfalls.

Why has Salt Cathedral become one of the country’s must-see attractions?

It would be inconceivable to come to this country without passing by the major sanctuary of Zipaquirá, esteemed as a true masterpiece of underground architecture and a place of great spiritual importance. Whether you’re interested in history, religion, art or simply looking for a unique experience, this monumental edifice offers something for everyone. As part of a tailor-made holiday, you’ll have the opportunity to include this visit in your itinerary, as well as the excursion to the Sacred Lagoon and the most beautiful colonial city, as these sites are in the same geographical area.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this underground wonder on your next trip to Colombia. Plan your visit today with Colombia Tour Adventure, your travel partner.