Africa en Colombia

San Basilio de Palenque

Historical Significance:

* Founded in the 16th century by escaped African slaves known as cimarrones.
* Became the first free settlement of African descent in the Americas.
* Served as a refuge for escaped slaves and a center of resistance against colonial rule.

Cultural Heritage:

* Known for its unique language, Palenquero, a creole language that blends African, Spanish, and indigenous elements.
* Preserves African traditions, music, dance, and spirituality.
* Has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural and historical significance.

Demographics:

* Population: Approximately 3,500 inhabitants.
* Majority of residents are descendants of the original cimarrones.

Geography:

* Located in the department of Bolívar, Colombia.
* Situated in the Montes de María region, surrounded by tropical forests and rivers.

Economy:

* Primarily agricultural, with crops such as corn, yuca, and plantains.
* Also involved in tourism and cultural activities.

Tourism:

* Known for its vibrant festivals, including the Fiesta de San Basilio (January) and the Festival de Tambora (October).
* Visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
* Home to museums and historical sites that showcase the community’s history and culture.

Notable Figures:

* Benkos Biohó: Founder and first leader of San Basilio de Palenque.
* María Josefa Pita: Renowned Palenquera dancer and musician.
* Guillermo Valencia Salgado: Colombian poet and diplomat who wrote extensively about San Basilio.

Legacy:

* San Basilio de Palenque remains a symbol of African resilience and cultural preservation.
* Its history and traditions continue to inspire and enrich the cultural heritage of Colombia and the wider African diaspora.

10 wisdom quotes

1. “El tiempo es oro, no lo malgastes.” (Time is gold, don’t waste it.)
2. “La verdad es como el agua: siempre encuentra su camino.” (Truth is like water: it always finds its way.)
3. “La paciencia es la madre de la sabiduría.” (Patience is the mother of wisdom.)
4. “El que no sabe escuchar, no sabe hablar.” (He who does not know how to listen, does not know how to speak.)
5. “El orgullo es el enemigo de la razón.” (Pride is the enemy of reason.)
6. “La humildad es la virtud de los sabios.” (Humility is the virtue of the wise.)
7. “El que no sabe perdonar, no sabe amar.” (He who does not know how to forgive, does not know how to love.)
8. “La esperanza es el pan del alma.” (Hope is the bread of the soul.)
9. “El amor es la fuerza que mueve el mundo.” (Love is the force that moves the world.)
10. “La vida es un viaje, no un destino.” (Life is a journey, not a destination.)