ACACÍAS
Department
Flag of the city
The flag of Acacías, Colombia, is made up of three colours: Yellow, white, and green. It is a vibrant representation of the city’s identity. Typically adorned with distinctive colors and symbols, it embodies the essence of Acacías’ culture and values. The flag serves as a visual manifestation of the community’s collective heritage, reflecting the historical roots and aspirations of its residents.
Slogan of the city
The slogan of the city is “Touristic City”. This is written on its seal as “Ciudad Turistica”. The slogan is as a result of the various tourism attractions in the city such as Pink Lake or Laguna Rosada; El Sagú; Las Delicias; and Caños Negros Waterfalls
History
Acacías, nestled in the Meta Department of Colombia, boasts a rich and multifaceted history that intertwines with the broader narrative of the nation. It was founded in 1920 and its mayor is Luis Orlando Gutierrez. This town is one of the most important municipalities in terms of population and economy, together with La Macarena, Granada and the capital city of Villavicencio. The name of the city is due to the acacia flowers that used to bloom in the region. It is considered one of the municipalities of Meta with more progress and development.
Preceding Spanish colonization, indigenous communities inhabited the region, leaving a cultural imprint on the area. With the arrival of the Spanish, the landscape witnessed significant transformations, becoming a focal point in the colonial enterprise. Over the centuries, Acacías evolved as a hub for economic activities, particularly agriculture and trade. The city played a role in shaping the cultural tapestry of Colombia, blending indigenous traditions with European influences. Its strategic location made it a crossroads for various historical events, contributing to its significance in the national historical narrative.
The 20th century marked a period of urbanization and modernization for Acacías, with infrastructure development and population growth. The city’s history reflects Colombia’s dynamic journey, including challenges and triumphs, political changes, and societal shifts. Today, Acacías stands as a testament to resilience, preserving its historical roots while embracing progress. Historical landmarks, artifacts, and local traditions serve as reminders of the city’s journey through time. The history of Acacías is a mosaic of diverse influences, embodying the spirit of a community that has adapted and flourished over centuries, contributing to the cultural mosaic that defines Colombia’s identity.
Geography of the city
Acacías, with its expansive geography, covers a total area of 1,124 square kilometers (434 square miles). The municipality and town encompass the majority of this space, reflecting a diverse landscape that includes plains, rivers, and natural beauty. The urban area, comprising 11.49 square kilometers (4.44 square miles), represents the developed core of the city. In the urban area of this municipality there are 97 neighborhoods and housing developments, and in the rural area there are 48 rural districts, including Chichimene, Dinamarca and Manzanares. There are also former police stations. Nestled at an elevation of 498 meters (1,634 feet) above sea level, Acacías enjoys a moderate altitude that contributes to its pleasant climate and diverse ecosystems.
The municipality is home to a dynamic and growing community. The population density in the broader municipality is 78 people per square kilometer (200 people per square mile), highlighting the distribution of inhabitants across the varied terrain. In the urban center of Acacías, the population density is higher, reaching 5,900 people per square kilometer (15,000 people per square mile). This higher urban density reflects the concentration of infrastructure, residential areas, and commercial spaces within the urban confines. Acacías’ geography, characterized by its vast expanse and varying elevations, plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s identity, from its rural landscapes to the bustling urban core.
Population
72,000 (2017)
82,425 (2023 projection)
One photo representative of the city
The city has various attraction centers with beauty to behold. These include Pink Lake or Laguna Rosada; El Sagú; Las Delicias; Caños Negros Waterfalls, and many more.
Etymology
The etymology of Acacías is rooted in the vibrant tapestry of nature that graces the region. The city derives its name from the flourishing acacia flowers that once adorned its landscapes. The term “Acacías” is a reflection of the indigenous flora that flourished in the area, contributing to the city’s botanical charm. The delicate and distinctive acacia flowers, with their symbolic significance and natural beauty, became synonymous with the identity of the locality. This etymological connection highlights a deep appreciation for the environment and its impact on the cultural and historical fabric of Acacías. The name serves as a nod to the city’s ecological heritage, encapsulating the spirit of a place where the blossoms of acacia once painted the landscape, leaving an enduring imprint on its identity.
What the city is known or famous for
In essence, Acacías is celebrated for its agricultural prowess, natural allure, cultural richness, economic vitality, and the unique connection to its floral namesake, collectively making it a city with a multifaceted and distinctive identity in Colombia.