According to media in the United States, the most dangerous places to travel to include North Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, China, and many more countries deemed “unsafe.” The same could be said about Colombia, at the northern tip of South America. Over thousands of years, Colombia has persisted as an important location, as travelers move from Central to South America. Their culture just as easily shines through, deriving Spanish and Native roots into a creation unique to them. Colombia has a magical land and culture that sadly comes with violence and crime.

Unfortunately, as with all countries, Colombia has a serious issue with crime and violence. According to the U.S. Department of State, “crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas. Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia.” As a country with one of the highest crime rates, Colombia has a large prison population full of violence, overcrowding, and sicknesses. In addition to violence, crime here is constituted by production and trafficking of cocaine; however, the Colombian civil war—since 1964—also contributes to the present violence.

Colombian Civil War, Image from The Globe and Mail

Among the violence, the land of Columbia still remains rich with history and heritage. From the 16th century, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas has stood at the top of the Hill of San Lázaro in the major city of Cartegena. This fort has beautiful orange roofs accenting its strong stone structure, with lots of surrounding greenery on the remaining uncovered hill (surrounded by the rest of the city). Plaza de Bolívar in the capital city Bogotá has a large community gathering space full of people, which was the center of the original town. The plaza has a unique architectural ensemble which is comprised of the Caracas Cathedral, Sacred Museum, Archbishop’s Palace, City Hall, Chapel of Santa Rosa de Lima, the Yellow House, the Main Theater, and the building of the Government of the Capital District. Needless to say, the architectural heritage in Colombia is bountiful.

Plaza de Bolivar, Image from Get Your Guide

Colombians take advantage of every moment to celebrate life. Throughout the world, Colombia’s music and dance is well known such as: salsa, cumbia, vallenato, merengue, etc. Why dance if not to celebrate a festival? Colombia has the Barranquilla Carnival, Flowers Festival, Blacks and Whites’ Carnival, Cali Fair, and so many more celebrations that are full of vibrant colors and cheerful voices. These celebrations bring together Colombians and others to celebrate religious holidays or simply celebrate Colombian culture.

Barranquilla Carnival, Image from Gecko Routes

While there may be an awfully high crime rate in Colombia, its people continue to celebrate their culture. The violence in Colombia can be contributed to its drug market or the civil war for sixty years, however, there needs to be some intervention to help solve the issue. Beyond the violence, Colombians have unique and beautiful architecture and heritage present all throughout the country. Their festivals also create a beautiful continuation of their culture with colorful outfits, dancing, and music. Even with media shedding light on one part of a country, it is important to research every part of a country before making assumptions.

U.S. Gov on Colombia