Iza

Iza, sometimes called the "Green Haven of Boyacá," is a charming municipality in the Boyacá Department of Colombia. Located in the Eastern Ranges of the Colombian Andes, it offers a peaceful respite with its well-preserved colonial architecture and a rhythm of life that invites contemplation. The town is celebrated for its artisanal crafts, particularly wool weaving, and has earned a reputation as Colombia's dessert capital, attracting visitors eager to sample its sweet offerings.

Beyond its appealing main square and delightful treats, Iza serves as an entry point to the natural splendor of the Sugamuxi Province, including its close proximity to Lago de Tota, Colombia's largest natural freshwater lake. Recognized as a Cultural Asset by the Ministry of Culture in 2002, Iza takes pride in safeguarding its heritage while providing a blend of cultural experiences, outdoor pursuits like cycling and hiking, and the comforting relief of its thermal hot springs.

From Muisca Legends to Colonial Foundations

Before the arrival of the Spanish, the land that is now Iza was inhabited by indigenous groups during the Herrera Period, and later by the Muisca people, who were organized into the Muisca Confederation. The area fell under the governance of the iraca from Sugamuxi, a leader from the nearby town of Sogamoso. Muisca mythology recounts the messenger god Bochica, who is said to have resided in a cave just outside Iza. The name "Iza" itself comes from the Chibcha language of the Muisca, where "za" means "night," and "Iza" is interpreted as "place of healing" or "the nobility of yarn spinning."

The modern town of Iza was officially established on January 2, 1554, though some sources indicate January 2, 1556. Its origins, like many colonial settlements, are somewhat debated, with some locals asserting the existence of an indigenous town long before the Spanish establishment by Rodrigo Egas de Guzman. In 1895, the town's name was briefly changed to Santa Isabel because "Iza" was considered to have an impious meaning in 19th-century colloquial Spanish, but the original name was soon reinstated.

Throughout its existence, Iza has maintained its character as a rural community. The town's colonial architecture, with its adobe-white walls and appealing streets, reflects this enduring legacy. In 2002, Iza was designated a Cultural Asset by the Ministry of Culture, acknowledging its efforts in preserving its cultural landscape and traditions. Today, Iza stands as a testament to its profound past, blending indigenous roots with colonial influences, and continuing its traditions of agriculture, mining, and artisanal crafts.

Begin your exploration in the Parque Álvaro Díaz Gómez, Iza's central plaza. This pleasant space features cobblestone paths, benches beneath tall trees, and local art, surrounded by colonial structures. On the east side of the plaza stands the Church of the Divine Savior (Iglesia del Divino Salvador), a neo-Gothic edifice originally constructed in the early 17th century, then rebuilt in adobe after a fire, and finally erected in its current form by the Franciscans in 1678. It contains an image of the Divine Savior discovered in 1748.

A short stroll from the main plaza leads to the Plazoleta de Postres, a dedicated area where local vendors offer a wide array of traditional desserts. Weekends are the optimal time to visit, as the plaza fills with people from across Colombia eager to sample these celebrated sweets. For a unique wellness experience, visit Iza's thermal hot springs on the outskirts of town, known for their medicinal minerality and pleasant, mineral-rich waters. The town is also a center for artisanal weaving, particularly of wool ruanas, with workshops and boutiques displaying these traditional Colombian garments. Beyond the town, the surrounding countryside provides scenic walks, cycling routes, and proximity to Lago de Tota, where one can visit Playa Blanca or embark on a boat tour of its islands.

Iza experiences a mountain climate, with comfortable, often overcast conditions throughout the year. Daytime highs generally range from 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 74°F), with nights dropping to around 8°C to 13°C (47°F to 56°F). The drier season typically runs from late May to early October, with August having the fewest wet days. For warm-weather activities and outdoor exploration, the period from early June to late September is generally considered the best. April is the wettest month, with substantial rainfall. Even during drier periods, it's wise to be prepared for shifting weather, as conditions can change rapidly in the Andes.

Iza is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) from Sogamoso and 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Tunja, the capital of the Boyacá Department. From Bogotá, the journey to Iza takes approximately 3 to 4 hours by bus, or around 4 hours by car. Buses from Sogamoso to Iza depart every 20 minutes and take about 30 minutes. If traveling from Tunja, one can take a bus and taxi combination, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Once in Iza, the town is small enough to explore on foot, allowing one to wander its colonial streets and visit the main attractions. For excursions to nearby Lago de Tota or the thermal springs, local transportation or tours can be arranged. Accommodations in and around Iza include hotels and cabins, some offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and local vendors. While the days can be warm, evenings are cool, so a sweater or jacket is recommended, especially for nights.