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The town of Nemocón is fairly small but beautiful. It’s worth wandering through town after visiting the Nemocón Salt Mine.
Plaza
The main plaza has a nice open space in the center filled with trees and is surrounded by colorful colonial style buildings. On the end with the church is a sign spelling out “I Love Nemocón”.
The focal point of the plaza is the Church of St. Francis of Assisi (Templo San Francisco de Assis), which was completed in 1883.
To the right of the church is the colorful Government House (Casa de Gobierno). It was built between 1915 and 1922. I really appreciated the woodwork on the doors.
Across the plaza is the old Departmental High School (Antiguo Colegio Departamental), which is currently in use as a primary school building.
Salt Museum (Permanently Closed)
The small Salt Museum (Museo de Sal) is located on a corner of the plaza. It’s free if you present a ticket to the salt mine.
The museum contains some nicely made scenes depicting the town’s history and the history of salt production.
Old Railway Station
Walking north from the plaza, I came to the edge of town where the old railway station is located. Train service began passing through Nemocón from Bogotá on June 5, 1907. The town used to be a major stop on the rail lines until 1960.
Nowadays, the railway station is being used as a cultural center. It’s open Monday through Friday. The building did look like it was undergoing a much needed restoration when I passed by.
Other Buildings
Walking around town, I was able to spot lots of beautiful colonial buildings. Many were nicely restored but others were in need of some work.
One building of note is the birthplace of Colombian artist Ricardo Moros Urbina. It’s on the road to the salt mine and is currently being used as a school. The artist was born in the building on March 27, 1865. Next door is a high school for girls, Our Lady of Good Success (Nuestra Señora de el Buen Suceso).
Mirador
Finally, on the west end of town is a path up to a statue of the Virgin. It’s called the Mirador de la Virgen. I didn’t walk up.
Getting There
There’s no direct transport from Bogotá to Nemocón. Buses run frequently between Nemocón and Zipaquirá. The ride takes just under a half hour. You can get out of the bus near the entrance to the salt mine.
