The Heart of Villa de Leyva: Plaza Central
Experience the charm of Plaza Central de Villa de Leyva, a historic town square surrounded by stunning colonial architecture and vibrant local culture.
Plaza Central de Villa de Leyva is a magnificent town square that stands as the centerpiece of this enchanting Colombian town. Surrounded by beautifully preserved colonial buildings, the plaza is a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws visitors from around the globe. Its expansive cobblestone layout invites travelers to explore the various shops, cafes, and art galleries that line its edges. Here, you can witness the hustle and bustle of local life, with artisans displaying their crafts and vendors offering delicious street food. The square often hosts cultural events and festivals, showcasing traditional music and dance that truly embody the spirit of Villa de Leyva. Visitors can take a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture that surrounds the plaza, including the iconic whitewashed buildings with their characteristic wooden balconies. The square is also home to the impressive Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, a notable landmark that adds to the historical significance of Plaza Central. As the sun sets, the plaza transforms into a lively social scene, with locals and tourists alike gathering to enjoy the ambiance, making it the perfect spot to relax and soak in the charm of this unique destination. For those looking to delve deeper into the history and culture of Villa de Leyva, guided tours often start from the plaza, providing insights into the town's past and its significance in Colombian heritage. Whether you're capturing the perfect photograph, enjoying a coffee at a nearby cafe, or taking part in local festivities, Plaza Central is an unforgettable experience that embodies the heart and soul of Villa de Leyva.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekend to experience local markets and cultural events for a more vibrant atmosphere.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the rich history and architecture surrounding the square.
- Don’t miss trying the local street food; vendors often have delicious and authentic options.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially during sunset when the plaza is beautifully illuminated.
A brief summary to Plaza Central De Villa De Leyva
- Villa de Leyva, Boyaca, CO
Getting There
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Walking
From the central area of Tunja, head towards the Plaza de Bolívar, which is the main square in Tunja. Once there, locate the bus terminal, Terminal de Transportes de Tunja, which is a short walk from the plaza. Look for buses or vans heading to Villa de Leyva. The ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. When you arrive in Villa de Leyva, get off at the terminal and walk towards the town center. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Plaza Central, which is about a 10-minute walk straight ahead. You will pass various shops and cafes along the way.
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Bus
If you are near the Universidad de Boyacá or the Tunja shopping mall, head towards the nearest bus stop that has services to Villa de Leyva. Board a bus marked 'Villa de Leyva' which operates regularly throughout the day. The journey will take about 30-40 minutes. Upon arriving at Villa de Leyva, disembark at the terminal. From the bus terminal, follow the main road into the town, and you will eventually reach Plaza Central after about a 10-15 minute walk. Look for the large colonial buildings as you approach the square.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in Tunja. Begin your journey by cycling towards Villa de Leyva via the scenic route. The distance is approximately 40 km and may take around 2 hours depending on your pace. Follow the road signs directing you to Villa de Leyva. Upon reaching Villa de Leyva, park your bicycle in a designated area and walk towards Plaza Central, which will be easily visible as you enter the town.
Attractions Nearby to Plaza Central De Villa De Leyva
- Villa de Leyva Main Square
- Museo Luis Alberto Acuña
- Iglesia Señora del Rosario
- Museo del Chocolate - Restaurante Cacao - Villa de Leyva
- Museo del Chocolate Villa de leyva
- villa de leyva
- Casa Museo Antonio Nariño
- Capilla Nuestra señora del Rosario Virgrn de la Libertad
- Museo Paleontológico de Villa de Leyva
- Casa Terracota
- Pozos Azules
- Desierto de Villa de Leyva Boyaca Colombia
- Desierto de los Pozos Azules
- Pozos Azules, Pozo Con Mesa de Picnic
- Fossil
Landmarks nearby to Plaza Central De Villa De Leyva
- Paramo Iguaque
- Monumento Muisca y Piedra de Simón Bolívar
- Monumento a la Raza Indígena
- Plaza Antigua Tunja
- Secretaría De Cultura Y Turismo
- Boyacá, Colombia
- Bosque De La República
- Obelisco A Los Mártires
- Los Hongos
- Glorieta del Gobernador
- Boyaca in the World
- Altiplano cundiboyacense
- Cueva el Chocó - Gámbita, Santander
- Ventanas de Tisquizoque
- Pueblito Boyacense