Cali Valle (English)

Cali is a city with a rich history and a dynamic cultural and economic life. Its development has been marked by its resilient spirit and its ability to adapt and grow while always maintaining its vibrant cultural identity.

History of Cali

Foundation and Colonial Era

Foundation: Cali was founded on July 25, 1536, by Sebastián de Belalcázar, a Spanish explorer who was one of the main conquerors of the lands that today form part of Colombia. The city was established in the valley of the Cauca River, a fertile and strategic region.

Name: The city was named "Santiago de Cali" in honor of the apostle Santiago and a pre-Columbian indigenous term.

During the colonial era, Cali was a small and less prominent city compared to other colonial cities like Bogotá and Cartagena. However, the surrounding region was rich in natural resources, which allowed the development of agriculture and livestock farming.

TOURISM

19th Century

Independence: Cali played an active role in Colombia's wars of independence. The city and its inhabitants supported the struggles against Spanish rule and participated in several military campaigns.
Growth: After independence, the city began to expand and develop its infrastructure. The construction of roads and improvements in transportation helped integrate Cali with the rest of the country.

20th Century

Industrial Development: In the early 20th century, Cali experienced rapid economic and demographic growth. The city industrialized, becoming an important manufacturing and commercial center. Numerous factories and companies were established, especially in the food, beverage, textile, and chemical sectors.
Migration: Economic prosperity attracted migrants from various parts of the country, contributing to the city's cultural diversity and population growth.
Infrastructure: Major infrastructure projects were undertaken, including the construction of avenues, bridges, and the modernization of the public transportation system.

Present Day

Sports: Cali is known as the "Sports Capital of America" due to its outstanding sports infrastructure and its role as a host for international events. The city has hosted the 1971 Pan American Games, the 2013 World Games, and numerous sports championships.
Culture: Cali is famous for its vibrant culture, especially its music and dance. It is known as the "World Capital of Salsa," with numerous festivals and events dedicated to this musical genre. The World Salsa Festival and the Cali Fair, held every December, are major events that attract tourists from all over the world.
Economy: Cali's economy remains strong and diversified, with important sectors in industry, commerce, agriculture, and services. The city is a major production and export center for sugar, coffee, and flowers, as well as a hub for technology and innovation.

Heritage and Tourism

Historic Sites: Cali has numerous historical and cultural sites, including the San Antonio Church, the Cali Tower, and the La Tertulia Museum.
Nature: The city is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park and the Cali Zoo being popular destinations for residents and visitors.
Gastronomy: Caleño cuisine is an important part of the local culture, with typical dishes such as sancocho de gallina, arroz atollado, and empanadas vallunas.

Regional Importance

Strategic Location: Cali is strategically located in southwestern Colombia, near the port of Buenaventura on the Pacific coast. This makes it an important logistical and commercial hub for the country.
Education: The city is home to important educational institutions, such as the University of Valle and the Icesi University, which are centers of research and professional training in the region.