Ciénega, Boyacá facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ciénega
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Municipality and town
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![]() Location of the municipality and town of Ciénega in the Boyacá department of Colombia
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Country | ![]() |
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Department | Boyacá Department | |
Province | Márquez Province | |
Founded | 22 October 1818 | |
Founded by | José Cayetano Vasquez | |
Area | ||
• Municipality and town | 73 km2 (28 sq mi) | |
• Urban | 15 km2 (6 sq mi) | |
Elevation | 2,460 m (8,070 ft) | |
Population
(2015)
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• Municipality and town | 4,754 | |
• Density | 65.1/km2 (168.7/sq mi) | |
• Urban | 1,332 | |
Time zone | UTC-5 (Colombia Standard Time) | |
Website | Official website: http://www.cienega-boyaca.gov.co/ |
Ciénega is a small town and municipality in Colombia, located in the Boyacá Department. It's part of the Márquez Province. The town is found on a high plateau called the Altiplano Cundiboyacense. It's about 27 kilometers (17 miles) from Tunja, which is the capital city of the Boyacá Department. Ciénega sits at an elevation of about 2,460 meters (8,070 feet) above sea level. The land in the municipality ranges from 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) to 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) high. Ciénega shares its borders with several other towns: Viracachá and Soracá to the north, Rondón to the east and south, and Ramiriquí to the south and west.
Contents
What Does the Name Ciénega Mean?
The name Ciénega comes from the ancient Chibcha language. In this language, "Ciénega" means "Place of water." This name likely describes the area's natural features.
A Look at Ciénega's History
Early Times and the Muisca People
Long ago, before the Spanish arrived, the area where Ciénega is now was home to the Muisca. They were a group of different rulers who formed a loose alliance called the Muisca Confederation. Ciénega was part of the lands ruled by the zaque, whose main city was Hunza.
The Arrival of the Spanish
A Spanish explorer named Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada traveled through Ciénega. He was on his way to find the legendary golden city of El Dorado. His journey marked a big change for the region.
Founding of Modern Ciénega
The modern town of Ciénega was officially founded on October 22, 1818. It was founded by José Cayetano Vasquez. He was the son of the person who owned the main farm, or hacienda, in the village at that time.
What Ciénega's Economy Is Like
The main ways people make a living in Ciénega are through livestock farming and agriculture. About 66% of the economy comes from raising animals like cattle. Another 31% comes from farming.
Main Agricultural Products
Farmers in Ciénega grow many different crops. These include important foods like potatoes, maize (corn), and peas. They also grow special fruits and vegetables such as arracacha, tree tomato, and uchuva (also known as goldenberry).
Famous People From Ciénega
- Jesús María Coronado Caro, a well-known bishop.
- Hector Páez, a professional mountain biker.
See also
In Spanish: Ciénega (Boyacá) para niños