San Juan de Pasto (English)
Nariño, Colombia
History of the City of Pasto, Colombia
Pre-Hispanic Era: Pasto, the capital of the department of Nariño, has its origins in pre-Hispanic times, inhabited by the indigenous culture of the Pastos. This agrarian group excelled in pottery, agriculture, and weaving, creating a social system that reflects their rich cultural heritage.
Foundation and Colonial Era: The city of San Juan de Pasto was founded on June 24, 1537, by Lorenzo de Aldana, who arrived under the command of Sebastián de Belalcázar. Its name honors Saint John the Baptist and the indigenous Pastos. During the colonial period, Pasto became a key administrative and commercial center, although it maintained loyalty to the Spanish crown in the face of independence movements.
Resistance in the 19th Century: Pasto showed strong resistance to the independence movements of Simón Bolívar, distinguished by its confrontations and sacrifices in defense of the royalist cause. A notable event was the Battle of Bomboná in 1822, where the tenacity of its inhabitants was marked, despite the defeat.
Modernization in the 20th Century: During the 20th century, Pasto modernized with road and rail infrastructure, which boosted its economic and cultural development. The establishment of the University of Nariño in 1904 consolidated its position as an important educational center.
Culture and Festivities: The city is recognized for its cultural heritage, highlighting the Carnival of Blacks and Whites, which was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009. This carnival is a celebration of cultural diversity with parades, music, and dances.
Current Situation: Today, Pasto remains an important cultural, educational, and economic center in southwestern Colombia, preserving its traditional identity while adapting to modernity, with a temperate climate and attractive landscapes that attract tourists and residents.
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