Barrancabermeja, Colombia
Region: Santander
Geographic Coordinates: 7.066700, -73.850000
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with high temperatures and rainfall throughout the year, with a wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April.
Population: 210729
Language: Spanish
Barrancabermeja is a city located in the Santander department of Colombia. It is situated on the banks of the Magdalena River, Which makes it an important transportation hub for both goods and people. The city has a population of approximately 200, 000 people and is known for its oil industry. The history of Barrancabermeja dates back to pre-Columbian times when it was inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Yariguies. The area was later colonized by Spanish settlers in the 16th century who established farms and ranches along the Magdalena River.
Today, Barrancabermeja’s economy is largely driven by its oil industry. The city is home to one of Colombia’s largest oil refineries, Which processes crude oil from nearby fields and exports refined products to other countries in South America. As a result, Many multinational companies have set up operations in Barrancabermeja, Providing employment opportunities for local residents. Aside from its industrial sector, Barrancabermeja also has several cultural attractions worth visiting. One such attraction is La Casona del Salitre, A historic mansion that dates back to colonial times and now serves as a museum showcasing local art and artifacts.
Another popular destination for tourists is Parque de la Vida, An eco-park that features hiking trails through lush forests and waterfalls. In addition to its cultural attractions, Barrancabermeja also hosts several annual festivals that celebrate the city’s rich history and traditions. One such festival is El Festival del Rio Magdalena y su Gente which takes place each year in June and features music performances, Food stalls selling traditional Colombian dishes like arepas con queso (corn cakes with cheese), Dancing competitions among others.
Overall, Barrancabermeja offers visitors an interesting blend of industrial prowess and cultural heritage with plenty of opportunities for exploration whether you’re interested in learning about the city’s history, Exploring its natural beauty or simply enjoying the local cuisine and festivities.
- Ecopetrol Refinery: A sprawling oil refinery that dominates the city skyline.
- Cristo Petrolero: A 33-meter tall statue of Christ located on a hill overlooking the city.
- Puente Guillermo Gaviria Correa: A suspension bridge that spans the Magdalena River and connects Barrancabermeja with Yondó.
- Parque de la Vida: A large park with playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths.
- Catedral Nuestra Señora del Pilar: The main Catholic church in Barrancabermeja, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and ornate interior.
- Mirador del Rio: An observation deck that offers stunning views of the Magdalena River and surrounding countryside.
- Malecon Turistico de Barrancabermeja: A riverside promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and bars.
- Museo del Petroleo de Ecopetrol: An oil museum that showcases the history of oil production in Colombia and its impact on society.
- Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de los Yariguíes: A national park located just outside of Barrancabermeja that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
- Caño Cristales : One of Colombia’s most beautiful natural wonders located about 5 hours away from Barrancabermeja by car or boat – it is known as the river that ran away from paradise.
- Barrancabermeja, Colombia is known for its oil industry and has a significant presence of companies such as Ecopetrol, Petrobras, and Halliburton.
- Other major industries in the city include agriculture, fishing, and tourism.
- The city also has a growing manufacturing sector with companies producing textiles, clothing, furniture, and food products.
- Additionally, there is a significant presence of service-based businesses such as banking and healthcare facilities.
- The founding of Barrancabermeja: Barrancabermeja was founded in 1536 by Spanish explorer Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada.
- The discovery of oil: In the early 1900s, oil was discovered in the region, leading to the development of the petroleum industry and making Barrancabermeja one of Colombia’s most important cities.
- The Banana Massacre: On December 6, 1928, Colombian soldiers opened fire on striking banana plantation workers in Ciénaga, a town near Barrancabermeja. Over a thousand people were killed or injured in what became known as the Banana Massacre.
- Luis Carlos Galán: Luis Carlos Galán was a Colombian politician who campaigned against drug trafficking and corruption. He was assassinated during a campaign rally in Bogotá on August 18, 1989. Galán grew up in Barrancabermeja and is remembered as one of Colombia’s most influential political figures.
- Ecopetrol explosion: On December 31, 2012, an explosion at an Ecopetrol refinery near Barrancabermeja killed two workers and injured dozens more.
- Elkin Ramírez: Elkin Ramírez was a singer-songwriter from Barrancabermeja who founded the rock band Kraken in the early 1980s.
- Francia Márquez: Francia Márquez is an Afro-Colombian community leader from La Toma near to Barrancabermeja, who has fought for environmental protection and land rights for her community.
- José Antonio Galán: José Antonio Galán was a leader of a popular uprising against Spanish colonial rule that took place throughout Colombia between March and October of 1781. He led more than ten thousand peasants to take over several towns including Socorro, Bucaramanga, and Barranca Bermeja.
- Ecopetrol Refinery Museum: This museum showcases the history and evolution of the oil industry in Colombia, with interactive exhibits and displays.
- Parque de la Vida: This park is a popular destination for families, with playgrounds, sports fields, and a swimming pool.
- Casa de la Cultura: This cultural center hosts art exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and other events throughout the year.
- Monumento al Petróleo: Located in the town square, this monument pays tribute to Barrancabermeja’s history as an oil-producing region.
- Mirador del Río Magdalena: This lookout point offers stunning views of the Magdalena River and surrounding countryside.
- Museo del Rio Magdalena: This museum explores the history and ecology of Colombia’s most important river through exhibits on its flora and fauna, indigenous cultures, transportation routes, and more.
- Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de los Yariguíes: A protected area that covers over 1000 square kilometers of pristine forests and mountains in Santander department just outside Barrancabermeja city limits
- Iglesia San Francisco de Asís: A beautiful church located in downtown Barrancabermeja that was built in 1959 by Italian architect Giovanni Buscaglione
- Plaza Cívica Luis Carlos Galán Sarmiento – Named after one of Colombia’s most famous politicians who was assassinated while running for president in 1989 this plaza is a central gathering place for locals to enjoy concerts or other public events
- Parque Acuático Agua Viva – A water park located just outside Barrancabermeja city limits offering a variety of water slides pools lazy rivers wave machines etc
- Festival del Río Magdalena: This festival honors the significance of the Magdalena River to Barrancabermeja and features parades, music, dance performances, and other cultural activities.
- Feria Agroindustrial y Artesanal: Local agricultural and artisanal products such as coffee, cocoa, cheese, and crafts are showcased at this fair.
- Festival de la Cultura Llanera: Celebrating the culture of the Llanos region of Colombia with music performances, dance shows and food fairs.
- Carnaval de Barrancabermeja: A colorful event taking place during Easter Week featuring traditional Colombian dances like cumbia and salsa in parades.
- Semana Santa: Holy Week is an important religious celebration in Barrancabermeja with processions through the streets depicting events from the Passion of Christ.
- Fiestas Patronales de San Silvestre- The patron saint festival held on December 31st features fireworks displays, live music concerts as well as traditional Colombian food stalls.
- Festival del Retorno- A celebration that marks Colombians’ return who migrated to other countries or regions in Colombia for work or study purposes with cultural events such as concerts and sports competitions taking place over several days every August year after year.
- Sancocho de Gallina: A chicken soup with yucca, plantains, and other vegetables.
- Bandeja Paisa: A traditional dish from the Antioquia region that includes beans, rice, meat (usually beef or pork), fried egg, avocado, and arepa.
- Arepas: Corn cakes usually stuffed with cheese or meat.
- Empanadas: Fried or baked turnovers filled with beef or chicken.
- Chicharrón: Fried pork belly served as a snack or side dish.
- La Casona de la 27 – known for their bandeja paisa and grilled meats
- El Caribeño – known for their seafood dishes
- La Parrilla del Pueblo – known for their grilled meats and empanadas
- El Rincón del Sabor – known for their sancocho de gallina and traditional Colombian dishes
- Donde Chepe – a popular spot for arepas and chicharrón
- Parque de la Vida: Located in the heart of Barrancabermeja, this park offers various recreational activities such as walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
- Parque Nacional del Chicamocha: This national park is situated just outside Barrancabermeja and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking trails, camping sites, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.
- Malecón de Barrancabermeja: This waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the Magdalena River and is a popular spot for jogging or cycling.
- Parque Ecoturístico Las Mariposas: Nature lovers should visit this nature reserve that features a butterfly garden, bird-watching tours, horseback riding trails and an adventure park with zip lines and rope courses.
- Club Campestre Los Caneyes: For members looking to indulge in some recreational activities like golf courses, tennis courts or swimming pools should visit this country club.
- Estadio Daniel Villa Zapata: Sports enthusiasts can catch soccer games or other athletic events throughout the year at this sports complex.
- Museo del Petróleo de Colombia: Located in Barrancabermeja’s historic district; visitors can explore the region’s oil industry history through exhibits on drilling techniques and equipment used over time.
Some popular restaurants in Barrancabermeja include:
Note from author : Please note that information about public parks may change due to COVID-19 restrictions or other factors beyond our control.
