Cali
Department
Valle del Cauca, Colombia
Flag of the city
The red stripes represent the love for Cali and the blood shed by the heroes from Cali during the battle of 3 July 1810. White represents the purity of the soul of the inhabitants of Cali and the river that crosses the city. Green symbolizes the green fields surrounding Cali.”
Seal of the city
Coat of Arms of Santiago de Cali, granted by Juana of Portugal, regent of Spain, through the Royal Decree given in Valladolid on June 27, 1559: a shield that within it has seven earthen-colored hills; the one in the middle being taller than the others, and to the bottom right hand, there’s a golden city between two rivers and green trees, and at the bottom of said shield there’s a sea port with a ship, anchored at the mouth of said river, which comes out of the said hill and enters the sea, and with other ships up the said river, with some canoes with their oars in blue and white waters, as it is painted and depicted here on a shield like this, which said arms we give to this said city.
Slogan of the city
Nestled in the Cauca Valley to the west of the Cauca River, Cali boasts a tropical savanna climate that blesses it with warm days and relatively cooler evenings. As the world’s salsa music capital, the city pulsates with rhythms that lure dance aficionados from all corners of the globe, especially during its famous Feria de Cali. Beyond the beats and dance steps, Cali’s historical districts, like San Antonio, showcase colonial architecture juxtaposed with modern urban landscapes, a testament to the city’s growth and evolution. Furthermore, its proximity to natural wonders, such as the Farallones de Cali National Park, accentuates its appeal to both adventurers and urbanites. As the third-largest city in Colombia, Cali remains a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and charisma, rightly deserving of its epithet, “La Sucursal del Cielo” or “The Branch of Heaven.”
History
The region where Santiago de Cali now stands was originally populated by indigenous communities before Spanish colonization. These communities, primarily Cariban language speakers, established themselves, with the Gorrones settling between the modern areas of Roldanillo and Santiago de Cali. Notably, the Morrones had a significant presence along the River Pescador.
Sebastián de Belalcázar, during his journey to Cali, encountered various indigenous tribes. One of these, the Timbas, left their gold behind in their haste to escape the Spaniards. Further north, Belalcázar faced the Jamundíes tribe, led by chief Jamundí. This tribe fiercely resisted the Spanish invaders but was eventually subdued. Another significant chief, Petecuy, posed a challenge for the Spaniards before they could claim the region. Following a major battle in 1536, the Spaniards defeated the natives and divided the region among themselves.
Santiago de Cali holds significance as it lay beyond the Incan empire’s boundaries. After Atahualpa’s capture and execution in Cajamarca, Belalcázar, acting under Pizarro’s orders, claimed territories like Guayaquil and Quito. However, Cali was an exception, becoming Belalcázar’s personal claim. He and his lineage retained control until Spain’s independence war.
Belalcázar, part of Columbus’s third voyage in 1498, later joined Francisco Pizarro in the Peruvian conquest in 1532. By 1534, he was on a mission to find Quito, during which he founded several cities, including Cali in 1536. Shortly after its establishment, the city was relocated to its current location in 1537 under Captain Miguel Muñoz.
During the colonial period, Santiago de Cali fell under the governance of Popayán, which was a subset of Quito’s Audiencia. The city’s role diminished as the administrative capital shifted from Cali to Popayán in 1540. By the 18th century, the surrounding regions predominantly consisted of haciendas. Santiago de Cali, at this time, was still relatively small with a population of around 6,548 by 1793.
In the lead-up to Colombia’s independence, Cali played a crucial role. On 3 July 1810, the city rejected Spain’s authority, a move predating Bogotá’s revolt. Despite initial Spanish attempts to quell the uprising, the drive for independence in the Valle del Cauca persisted. It culminated with the region permanently breaking away from royalist control by the early 1820s.
The 19th century saw Cali transform from a sleepy community into an emerging urban and economic hub, with the influence of Jewish entrepreneurs being quite significant. Key infrastructure developments, like the establishment of the market plaza, catalyzed the city’s growth.
Cali’s 20th century was marked by significant events, including a devastating explosion in 1956, hosting the Pan American Games in 1971, and the completion of the city’s tallest building in 1982. However, 2021 became a tumultuous year for Cali due to intense protests and political unrest, which saw acts of violence, vandalism, and confrontations between protesters and law enforcement.
Geography of the city
Cali is positioned within the Cauca Valley, flanked by the Cauca River to its east and the Western Mountain Range, including the Farallones de Cali hills, to its west. The city is elevated at approximately 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) above sea level, with a geographical location of approximately 3.44° N latitude and 76.52° W longitude. Approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) westwards, over the Western Cordillera, is the port city of Buenaventura on Colombia’s Pacific coast. To Cali’s northeast, you’ll find the industrial center of Yumbo and the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO), which stands as Colombia’s third busiest in terms of passenger volume, accommodating 2,667,526 travelers in 2009.
The topographical layout of Santiago de Cali is characterized by its valley setting. To the west, it’s bordered closely by the Farallones de Cali Mountains. The east is defined by the Cauca River, while the north and south are marked by expansive plains. The northern plains encompass the industrial region of Yumbo, part of Cali’s metropolitan zone, and to the south, the plains reach Jamundí, also within the metropolitan sphere. While a significant portion of the city is flat, there are hilly regions, primarily to the west such as San Antonio and La loma de la Cruz, which are prominent tourist attractions. Numerous rivers, springing from the Western Mountain Range, traverse through Cali, eventually emptying into the Cauca River. In the city’s western section, the Aguacatal River merges with the Cali River, which subsequently flows into the Cauca River. Other rivers like Cañaveralejo, Lilí, and Meléndez join the CVC south channel, which also drains into the Cauca River. The scenic shores of the southern Pance River are a popular locale for relaxation and recreational pursuits.
Population
The current metro area population of Cali in 2023 is 2,864,000, a 0.95% increase from 2022. The metro area population of Cali in 2022 was 2,837,000, a 0.96% increase from 2021.
2,864,000 (2023)
2,837,000 (2022)
One photo representative of the city
Nestled on the outskirts of Santiago de Cali, the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park stands as a beacon of Colombia’s vast ecological diversity. This expansive reserve paints a picture of lush green forests, teeming with life and echoing with the calls of over 500 bird species. It’s not just the avian residents that draw attention; the park is a haven for about 30 amphibian species, alongside an array of mammals and plants, some of which are unique to the region. The park’s significance isn’t limited to its biodiversity; it serves as a poignant reminder of Cali’s dedication to conserving its environmental heritage. Amidst the fast-paced life of urban Cali, the Farallones offer a tranquil retreat, urging visitors to reconnect with nature. Its rolling landscapes, punctuated by streams and diverse habitats, are a testament to nature’s artistic prowess. For residents and tourists alike, a visit to the Farallones is more than just a day trip; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of nature’s marvels. As urbanization continues its march worldwide, areas like the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park remind us of the importance of preserving these green sanctuaries for future generations.
Etymology
The Colombian city of Cali, often affectionately referred to by its shortened name, holds a tapestry of stories in its nomenclature. While the exact origins of “Cali” are debated among historians, a prevalent theory suggests its derivation from indigenous terms “kaly” or “kali,” meaning “warm.” This interpretation not only resonates with the region’s tropical ambiance but may also metaphorically hint at the warmth and hospitality of its inhabitants. Before the Spanish set foot in this territory, it was home to diverse indigenous tribes whose linguistic imprints have seeped into many local place names.
Incorporated into its official title, “Santiago de Cali,” the prefix “Santiago” pays homage to Saint James, celebrated annually on the 25th of July. The “Cali” segment, on the other hand, harks back to its indigenous heritage, possibly linked to the local “Calima” tribe. This confluence of names beautifully epitomizes Cali’s dual legacy—of Spanish traditions interwoven with indigenous practices. Such an interplay of cultural heritages is not only evident in its title but also reflects the broader historical and sociocultural fabric of the city.
What the city is known or famous for
Nestled in the heart of Cali, Colombia’s third-largest city, stands the iconic Torre de Cali, commonly known in English as the Cali Tower. Dominating the city’s skyline, this remarkable edifice is not just an architectural marvel but also a testament to Cali’s rapid urbanization and its aspirations in the latter half of the 20th century.
Constructed during a period of significant economic growth for the city, the Torre de Cali was conceived as a symbol of progress and modernity. Since its inception, it has played a pivotal role in the city’s development and has served as a beacon for both residents and visitors alike. The tower’s gleaming facade, rising gracefully against the backdrop of Cali’s natural beauty, juxtaposes the city’s urban achievements with its lush surroundings.
One of the tallest structures in the city, the Cali Tower spans an impressive height and offers unparalleled panoramic views of the sprawling urban landscape below. On a clear day, visitors ascending its levels can witness the majestic Cauca River winding its course, the verdant peaks of the Farallones de Cali in the distance, and the rhythmic ebb and flow of city life on the streets below. This bird’s-eye view presents Cali in all its splendor, making a trip to the tower a must for anyone seeking to experience the essence of the city.
Historically, the Torre de Cali was designed with the intention of serving as a luxury hotel. Over the decades, it has hosted numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and international guests, all drawn by its reputation for excellence and its central location. Situated in downtown Cali, the tower’s proximity to major commercial centers, cultural attractions, and entertainment venues makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.
Beyond its architectural significance and the vistas it offers, the Cali Tower is also emblematic of the city’s rich history and diverse cultural fabric. Its presence is a constant reminder of Cali’s journey from a modest pre-colonial settlement to a bustling modern metropolis. Every brick and beam tells a story of ambition, resilience, and the undying spirit of the Caleños.