Tenza facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Tenza
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Municipality and town
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Church of Tenza
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Location of the municipality and town of Tenza in the Boyacá Department of Colombia
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| Country |  Colombia |
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| Department | Boyacá Department | |
| Province | Eastern Boyacá Province | |
| Founded | 24 June 1537 | |
| Founded by | Pedro Fernández de Valenzuela | |
| Area | ||
| • Municipality and town | 51 km2 (20 sq mi) | |
| Elevation | 1,600 m (5,200 ft) | |
| Population
(2015)
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| • Municipality and town | 4,112 | |
| • Density | 80.6/km2 (208.8/sq mi) | |
| • Urban | 1,229 | |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Colombia Standard Time) | |
| Website | Official website: http://www.tenza-boyaca.gov.co/ | |
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Tenza is a town and a type of local government area called a municipality in Colombia. It is located in the Boyacá Department, specifically in the Eastern Boyacá Province. Tenza is surrounded by other towns and areas. To the north, it borders La Capilla and Pachavita. To the east, it borders the Cundinamarca Department. To the south, it is next to Sutatenza, and to the west, it borders Garagoa. The town is situated in the Tenza Valley, and its elevation ranges from about 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) to 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level.
Contents
History of Tenza
Ancient Times: The Muisca People
Long ago, before Europeans arrived, the area where Tenza is now was home to the Muisca people. The Muisca were an important group of indigenous people in ancient Colombia. They lived in this region and had their own leaders and customs.
Arrival of the Spanish
In 1537, Spanish explorers, known as conquistadores, came to the area. They were led by Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada. These explorers were often looking for valuable resources like emeralds. The Muisca village in this area was ruled by a local leader called a cacique. This cacique was loyal to the zaque (a powerful Muisca ruler) of Hunza.
Founding of Modern Tenza
The modern town of Tenza was officially founded by the Spanish. This happened on June 24, 1537, which is Saint John's Day. The town was founded during the time when the Spanish were taking control of the Muisca lands.
What Does "Tenza" Mean?
The original name for Tenza was Tenazuca. In the Chibcha language of the Muisca people, Tenazuca means "going down at night." This name likely described something about the area's geography or how the Muisca people saw it.
Economy of Tenza
Main Activities
The most important economic activity in Tenza is raising animals, especially for meat and milk. This is known as Livestock farming.
Farming in Tenza
Farming is also done in Tenza, but on a smaller scale. Farmers grow various crops. These include common foods like beans, peas, and maize (corn). They also grow root vegetables like yuca and arracacha. Other crops include tomatoes, cucumbers, and bananas.
Mining in the Area
Some mining also takes place in Tenza. This means that valuable minerals are dug out of the ground in certain parts of the municipality.
Famous People from Tenza
- Juan Morales: He is a former professional cyclist who was born in Tenza.
See also
In Spanish: Tenza para niños
