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Cómbita is a small sleepy town in the department of Boyacá, Colombia, just a short drive north of Tunja. It’s mostly known as the hometown of a few professional cyclists.
Introduction to Cómbita
The area making up Cómbita was originally inhabited by the Muisca people. The Order of Augustinian Recollects, who administered to the local population, founded the town in 1586. The local economy is based on livestock and agriculture, with potatoes, peas, corn, wheat, and barley as the major crops.
The town’s claim to fame is Nairo Quintana, one of Colombia’s most successful cyclists, who was born and raised in Cómbita. He won the Giro d’Italia in 2014, the Vuelta a España in 2016, and finished second in the 2013 and 2015 Tour de France. Quintana has also won several other major stage races. Other professional cyclists born in Cómbita include Nairo’s brother Dayer and Ismael Sarmiento.
Main Plaza
Cómbita doesn’t have much to see outside the huge main plaza. It’s a very quiet town and there’s not a lot of action.
Church of the Immaculate Conception
The most important building on the plaza is the Church of the Immaculate Conception (Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción). Construction on the French Gothic style church started in 1952. It was inaugurated and consecrated on July 5, 1958. Unfortunately, it was closed when we stopped by.
Tienda La Villita
Want to learn more about Nairo Quintana? Head 10 minutes outside of town to Tienda La Villita. This roadside store, based in his boyhood home, is run by his mother and family. It features a mural of Quintana as well as two statues of him riding a bike. Inside, you can buy snacks and coffee or take home a box of local pastries with Nairo’s face on it. (Note: the store has expanded since our visit and has become a major stop for cyclists riding through the area.)
Next to the store, the cyclist’s mother runs a booth selling Nairo Quintana souvenirs and memorabilia. She’s a humble woman who’s always smiling and willing to chat with visitors. We were happy to get the chance to spend a few minutes with her.
