Sogamoso — The City of the Sun

Located in the heart of the Sugamuxi Province, Sogamoso is the largest city in the region and the natural gateway to Sugamuxi and Boyacá’s highland towns. Often called the “City of the Sun”, it blends ancient history, vibrant culture, and Andean landscapes with the conveniences of a modern urban hub.

Ancient Roots and Sacred History

Long before Spanish colonization, Sogamoso — known to the Muisca people as Suamox — was one of the most important spiritual centers of this pre-Hispanic civilization. The legendary Temple of the Sun honored Sué, the Sun god, and hosted ceremonies, astronomical observations, and sacred rituals.

Today, visitors can experience this ancestral legacy at the Archaeological Museum of Sogamoso, where a reconstructed Temple of the Sun showcases Muisca craftsmanship, beliefs, and worldviews.

Colonial History

In the 16th century, Spanish settlers established Sogamoso as a colonial town, blending European urban planning with existing Muisca traditions. The city became an important administrative and religious center in the Eastern Andes, with churches, plazas, and civic buildings forming the nucleus of urban life. Its colonial legacy can still be seen today in the historic plazas, architecture, and streetscapes that connect past and present.

Culture You Can Experience

Sogamoso’s culture is alive and visible in daily life. Local markets overflow with fresh produce from surrounding towns, family-run restaurants serve traditional Boyacense cuisine, and streets come alive with music, dance, and festivals throughout the year.

The Fiesta del Sol is the city’s signature event, celebrating its indigenous heritage with music, dance, and symbolic rituals. Visitors can witness living traditions while exploring a city that honors both past and present.

The Gateway to Sugamuxi

Thanks to its central location, Sogamoso is the ideal base for exploring the wider Sugamuxi region. From here, travelers can easily reach Lake Tota, the heritage town of Monguí, the thermal village of Iza, the flower-filled streets of Tibasosa, and the colonial charm of Firavitoba.

The city provides a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and services, making it a comfortable and practical hub for discovering both cultural landmarks and natural landscapes in the region.

A Living, Modern City

Beyond its history, Sogamoso is one of Boyacá’s most important industrial and commercial centers. Its bustling streets, vibrant markets, and growing culinary scene reflect a city that embraces progress while celebrating heritage.

This blend of past and present makes Sogamoso unique: a gateway city where ancestral traditions meet modern life, and the energy of the Andes is felt at every corner.

For many travelers, Sogamoso is not just a place to pass through, but the starting point of their journey through Sugamuxi.