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San Andrés de Sotavento
Municipality and town
Flag of San Andrés de Sotavento
Flag
Location of the municipality and town of San Andrés de Sotavento in the Córdoba Department of Colombia.
Location of the municipality and town of San Andrés de Sotavento in the Córdoba Department of Colombia.
Country  Colombia
Department Córdoba Department
Population
 (2020 est.)
 • Total 48,404
Time zone UTC-5 (Colombia Standard Time)

San Andrés de Sotavento is a town and municipality located in the Córdoba Department, northern Colombia. It is a place with a rich history and culture, especially known for its connection to the Zenú people.

As of 2020, about 48,404 people live in San Andrés de Sotavento. This area is important for understanding the history and traditions of indigenous groups in Colombia.

Where is San Andrés de Sotavento?

San Andrés de Sotavento is found in the northern part of Colombia. It is part of the Córdoba Department, which is known for its warm climate and fertile lands. The town is located in a region that has many rivers and green areas. This makes the land good for farming and raising animals.

Geography and Climate

The municipality is situated in a flat area, close to the Caribbean coast. This location gives it a tropical climate, meaning it's warm all year round. There are usually two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. The rivers nearby are important for the local communities and their activities.

History of San Andrés de Sotavento

The area where San Andrés de Sotavento is located has a very long history. It was once home to the Zenú people, an important indigenous group. They lived here long before Europeans arrived in Colombia. The Zenú were skilled at farming and creating beautiful gold artwork.

The Zenú People

The Zenú people had a very organized society. They were famous for their advanced water management systems. They built canals to control floods and irrigate their crops. This allowed them to grow food even during dry periods. They also created amazing gold and pottery pieces. Their legacy is still very much alive in the region today.

Modern Times

San Andrés de Sotavento became an official municipality in the 20th century. Today, it continues to be a center for the Zenú culture. Many people in the town are descendants of the original Zenú inhabitants. They work to keep their traditions, language, and crafts alive.

Culture and Traditions

The culture of San Andrés de Sotavento is deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage. The Zenú people have preserved many of their customs. This includes their traditional music, dances, and crafts.

Zenú Crafts

One of the most famous crafts from this region is the sombrero vueltiao. This is a traditional hat woven from a plant called caña flecha. The hat has unique patterns that represent the Zenú culture. It is a symbol of Colombia and is recognized worldwide. Many families in San Andrés de Sotavento make these hats. They pass the weaving skills down through generations.

Festivals and Celebrations

The town celebrates various festivals throughout the year. These events often showcase the rich Zenú culture. They include traditional music, dances, and food. These celebrations are a great way for visitors to experience the local traditions.

Economy and Daily Life

The economy of San Andrés de Sotavento mainly relies on agriculture. People grow crops like corn, yuca, and plantains. Raising livestock, such as cattle, is also important.

Agriculture and Farming

Farming provides food and income for many families. The fertile land and warm climate help crops grow well. Farmers often use traditional methods passed down from their ancestors.

Local Crafts and Tourism

The production of sombrero vueltiao and other crafts is also a key part of the economy. These items are sold to tourists and in other parts of Colombia. Tourism is growing as more people want to learn about the Zenú culture. This helps create jobs and support the local community.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: San Andrés de Sotavento para niños

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