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Tota is a small town in the department of Boyacá, Colombia. It’s the oldest municipality in Boyacá and one of the nearest towns to Lake Tota. We passed through on our way to see the lake.
Introduction to Tota
The name of the town, which was originally inhabited by the indigenous Muisca people, means “tillage of the river” in the Chibcha language. The modern town was founded by Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada (1509-1579) on February 1, 1535. It was elevated to a municipality in 1796.
The main economy of Tota is based on agriculture, livestock farming, fish farming, mining, and tourism to Lake Tota. Major crops cultivated in the town include potatoes, carrots, peas, onions, barley, wheat, beans, and others. The feast of the Virgin of Mount Carmel is celebrated annually in August.
Plaza
The large plaza has some trees and is surrounded by colonial buildings. Cultural and recreational activities are carried out there throughout the year.
In the center of the plaza is a fountain dedicated to the town’s weavers. It had no water during our visit. A few different plaques attached to the fountain chronicle the town’s history.
Other statues around the plaza commemorate the agricultural roots of the town, a pair of weavers sitting at a fountain, and San Isidro Labrador.
Church of Our Lady of Sorrows
The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows is situated on the northeast corner of the plaza. It’s considered an architectural jewel and dates back to the 16th century. Unfortunately, it was closed when we walked by.
Map of the Town of Tota
