Last updated on .
The pleasant small town of Tópaga, in the department of Boyacá, Colombia, is near the town of Monguí and city of Sogamoso.
Introduction to Tópaga
Tópaga is named for a Muisca cacique whose name means “Servant of the Sun” in the Chibcha language. The land was originally inhabited by the Muisca people. The town was founded by Álvaro de Leyva on March 6, 1593, and is an important coal mining center. Agriculture and livestock are also important economic activities.
Parque 11 de Julio
The town plaza, Parque 11 de Julio, is named for an important battle that took place on July 11, 1819, during the Colombian War of Independence. In the center you’ll find a fountain and a monument dedicated to the battle as well as a few topiaries. They resemble blobs more than anything, but they’re still nice.
Coal Souvenirs
Around the plaza, you might find vendors selling handicrafts made out of coal. These impressive pieces make nice souvenirs.
Church of the Immaculate Conception
The Church of the Immaculate Conception (Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción) is definitely worth popping into. It was built in 1632 and is a nice example of colonial architecture. Everything inside dates to before 1633, including the gilded wooden carvings and artwork from the Quito school.
The Altar of the Mirrors (Altar de los Espejos), on the left side of the nave, contains 33 mirrors corresponding to the number of years Jesus lived on Earth. The Jesuits used it to teach the indigenous people that the reflections were their spirits and God could see them.
Another interesting feature you’ll find in the church is a carving of the devil. It might seem odd to have a devil inside a church, but the idea was to scare the indigenous people and teach the difference between good and evil. Look up to the ceiling and it’s easy to spot.
