Barichara facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Barichara
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Municipality and town
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Street in Barichara
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Location of the municipality and town of Barichara in the Santander Department of Colombia.
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| Country |  Colombia |
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| Department | Santander Department | ||
| Founded | January 25, 1705 | ||
| Founded by | Francisco Pradilla y Ayerbe | ||
| Area | |||
| • Total | 134 km2 (52 sq mi) | ||
| Population
(2005)
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| • Total | 7,063 | ||
| • Density | 52.71/km2 (136.5/sq mi) | ||
| Demonym(s) | Baricharas & Patiamarillos | ||
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Colombia Standard Time) | ||
| Website | www.barichara-santander.gov.co | ||
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Barichara is a charming town and municipality in the Santander Department of northeastern Colombia. It's famous for its beautiful old buildings and peaceful atmosphere.
In 2010, Barichara was named a Colombian Pueblo Patrimonio. This means it's a special "heritage town" recognized for its history, amazing architecture, and potential for tourism. It was one of the first 11 towns chosen for this honor!
You might even recognize Barichara's unique, colorful buildings. They helped inspire the look of the popular 2021 Disney animated movie Encanto!
Contents
Discovering Barichara
Barichara is a small town with a big personality. It's located in the Santander Department, which is a region in Colombia. The town is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture.
What Makes Barichara Special?
The town's buildings are mostly made of stone and have red tile roofs. The streets are also paved with stone, giving the whole place a very old-world feel. Walking through Barichara feels like stepping back in time.
A Heritage Town Status
Being a Pueblo Patrimonio means Barichara is important for Colombia's history and culture. This title helps protect its unique look and encourages people to visit. It's part of a network of special towns that showcase Colombia's rich heritage.
Inspiration for Encanto
The creators of Disney's Encanto visited Barichara and other Colombian towns. They loved the colorful houses and the way the towns were built. These real-life places helped them design the magical world of the Madrigal family.
History of Barichara
Barichara was officially founded on January 25, 1705. It was established by Francisco Pradilla y Ayerbe. The town has grown over centuries while keeping its original charm.
Early Beginnings
The area where Barichara stands was first settled by indigenous people. Later, Spanish colonists arrived and began building the town we see today. They used local stone to construct homes and churches.
Protecting the Past
Over the years, the people of Barichara have worked hard to preserve their town's unique character. This dedication is why it looks so much like it did hundreds of years ago. It's a living museum of Colombian history.
Life in Barichara
Barichara is home to about 7,000 people. The residents are sometimes called "Baricharas" or "Patiamarillos." Life here is generally quiet and peaceful.
Local Culture and Traditions
The town has a strong sense of community. Many local traditions are still practiced. Visitors can experience authentic Colombian culture in Barichara.
Tourism in Barichara
Tourism is important for Barichara. People come from all over the world to see its beauty. Visitors enjoy walking the stone streets, admiring the architecture, and experiencing the calm atmosphere. There are also opportunities for outdoor activities nearby.
