Villa de Leyva: a journey through fossils, history, and unique landscapes.

Villa de Leyva is one of the most charming towns in Colombia. Its cobblestone streets, white houses, and colonial architecture transport visitors to another era. However, this Boyacá destination holds much more than history: it also houses fossils of giant marine creatures, legends, natural landscapes, and curiosities that surprise anyone who visits.

1. Millions of years ago, Villa de Leyva was under the sea

Although today it is surrounded by mountains, approximately 130 million years ago this region was covered by an ocean. For this reason, in different archaeological and paleontological excavations, fossils of ammonites, fish, turtles, and huge marine reptiles that inhabited these waters during the age of dinosaurs have been found. It is one of the most important fossil sites in Colombia.

2. Here was found one of the largest marine reptiles in South America.

Near Villa de Leyva, the remains of an impressive pliosaur were discovered, a gigantic marine predator that could exceed 10 meters in length. This fossil, known as "The Monster of Villa de Leyva," is preserved in the Paleontological Museum and is one of the main scientific attractions of the region.

3. Its main square is one of the largest in Latin America.

The Plaza Mayor of Villa de Leyva has an area of about 14,000 square meters, making it one of the largest cobblestone squares on the continent. Since colonial times, it has been the setting for markets, festivals, celebrations, and historical events.

4. The streets have maintained the same design for over 400 years.

Walking through Villa de Leyva is traveling through time. Its cobblestone streets, white facades, wooden balconies, and colonial buildings have been preserved almost intact since the 16th century, which is why the municipality was declared a National Monument of Colombia.

5. There is a legend about the House of the First Congress

Some inhabitants say that, during the nights, footsteps and voices can be heard in one of the oldest houses in the town, where the First Congress of the United Provinces of New Granada was held. Although there is no evidence of these stories, they are part of the folklore and the mystery that surrounds the historic center.

6. It is one of the best places in Colombia to observe the stars.

Thanks to its dry climate, low light pollution, and clear skies for much of the year, Villa de Leyva has become an ideal destination for astronomy. It even hosts events and gatherings dedicated to observing the universe.

7. Very close is the Casa Terracota, the largest ceramic in the world.

Just a few minutes from the historic center is the famous Casa Terracota, a house built entirely of baked clay. Known as "the largest ceramic house in the world," it is a unique architectural work that combines art, sustainability, and creativity.

8. The desert is also part of Villa de Leyva

Very close to the town is a semi-desert area with landscapes of sand, cacti, and rock formations that contrast with the mountains of Boyacá. This place is ideal for hiking, cycling, and photography.

9. Every year the sky is filled with kites

During the month of August, Villa de Leyva celebrates the traditional Festival of Wind and Kites, an event that brings together national and international participants to fill the sky with huge and colorful kites of all shapes and sizes.

10. It is one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Colombia.

The architecture, the churches, the convents, and the old mansions have made Villa de Leyva one of the most important heritage destinations in the country. Every corner retains the charm of the colonial era and offers a unique experience for those who enjoy history and culture.

A destination where history began under the sea

Villa de Leyva is much more than a beautiful colonial town. It is a place where gigantic marine reptiles swam millions of years ago, where the streets tell stories of independence, and where every landscape invites you to discover a new secret. If you are looking for a destination full of history, nature, and curiosities, this corner of Boyacá will surprise you at every turn.