Last updated on .
Cuítiva is a tiny town in Boyacá, Colombia. It’s best known for the fountain in the center of the town plaza.
Introduction to Cuítiva
Cuítiva, which was originally inhabited by the indigenous Muisca people, translates to “Land of the Captain’s Wife” in the Chibcha language. It could also mean “Resemblance to the Chief”. The town was founded by Spanish conquistador Juan de Sanct Martín on January 19, 1550. The main economic activities are agriculture and livestock.
Parque de Cuítiva
Parque de Cuítiva is the main plaza in town. It’s a gorgeous open space filled with trees, bushes, and benches, and is paved with cobblestones.
Monument to the Onion Farmer
In the center of the plaza is the Monument to the Onion Farmer (Monumento al Cebollero). It was created by Delfín Ibáñez in 2005 and features a sculpture depicting the Muisca god Bochica. According to legend, Bochica was the founder of the Muisca civilization. He had a beard and came from the east. He gave the Muisca people their laws and taught them agriculture and crafts such as pottery and textiles.
To the left of Bochica is a figure of Chibchacum, the Muisca god of rain and thunder. He carries the earth on his shoulders, much like Atlas of Ancient Greece. To the right is Bachué, the Muisca mother goddess who emerged from Laguna de Iguaque with a baby in her arms. The Muisca believed that Bachué married the baby when he grew up and together they populated the earth.
Church of the Lord of Miracles
The Church of the Lord of Miracles is on the east end of the plaza. The parish dates back to 1661 and the current church was built in the early 20th century. It contains a miniature statue of the Virgin of Sorrows. The high altar and paintings were made by the Franciscans in the mid-17th century. A small chapel to the left of the church was constructed by Franciscan missionaries in 1537.
