Plaza Mayor | Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva – Plaza Mayor Overview

Villa de Leyva is one of the most charming and picturesque towns in Boyacá Department, located in central Colombia. Known for its preserved colonial architecture, Villa de Leyva is a significant historical and cultural destination. At the heart of this town lies its Plaza Mayor, a large, cobbled square that serves as the focal point of Villa de Leyva’s social and cultural life.

Plaza Mayor – Villa de Leyva

Plaza Mayor is one of the largest plazas in Colombia and a prominent feature of Villa de Leyva’s colonial charm. Surrounded by white-washed buildings with red-tiled roofs, this square is a stunning example of the town's colonial architecture and remains central to its everyday life.

Size and Layout

• Size: Plaza Mayor in Villa de Leyva is renowned for being one of the largest cobblestone squares in Latin America, measuring about 14,000 square meters.
• Design: The square is rectangular in shape and is surrounded by colonial-style buildings. It features wide open spaces with several historical landmarks around the edges.

Historical Significance

• Founding and Development: Villa de Leyva was founded in 1572 by Andrés Díaz Venero de Leyva, the first president of the Royal Audience of Santafé de Bogotá. The town and the plaza have remained largely unchanged, preserving their colonial Spanish architecture and atmosphere.
• Cultural Heart: Plaza Mayor has historically served as the central gathering place for the townspeople, used for festivals, market days, processions, and civic events. It remains a space where locals and visitors can experience the town's vibrant cultural traditions.

Architecture Around Plaza Mayor

• Colonial Buildings: The buildings around the plaza are an iconic representation of 17th and 18th-century colonial architecture, characterized by whitewashed walls, red-tile roofs, and arched doorways. Many of the buildings now house restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
• Historical Landmarks: Several significant colonial-era landmarks can be seen around the plaza, including:
  • The Town Hall (Casa de la Cultura): An important historic building that was once the municipal government headquarters.
  • The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario): A beautiful whitewashed church that dates back to the 17th century. It’s an important part of the town’s religious history and a focal point in the plaza.

Events and Activities

• Festivals: The plaza comes to life during various local and national festivals such as Semana Santa (Holy Week), the Festival of the Vallenato, and the Festival of the Night of the Candles, where thousands of candles are lit up around the square, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Markets and Exhibitions: Throughout the year, local markets and art exhibitions take place in the plaza. Vendors sell handcrafted goods, local produce, and traditional products, making it a perfect place for visitors to experience local culture.

Tourism and Visitors

• Tourism: Plaza Mayor is the main attraction in Villa de Leyva, drawing tourists from around the world to explore the historical cobblestone streets, visit museums, or simply sit in one of the many cafés lining the square.
• Cafés and Shops: Around the square, visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, sipping Colombian coffee, shopping for artisan goods, and admiring the views of the surrounding mountains. The square also hosts numerous boutiques selling handcrafted jewelry and local handicrafts.

Conclusion

Plaza Mayor in Villa de Leyva is the heart of this beautiful colonial town, with its spacious cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and breathtaking views. It is an iconic symbol of the town’s rich history and cultural significance, serving as both a center for daily life and a gathering place for special events. Whether you are exploring the surrounding colonial architecture, shopping at the local markets, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, Plaza Mayor is a must-see attraction when visiting Villa de Leyva.