Mosquera, located near Lake Herrera, holds historical significance dating back to the preceramic period. The area was founded on 27 September 1861 and inhabited by the Muisca civilization from around 800 AD. The Muisca were an advanced culture known for agriculture on the high plains of the Bogotá savanna. They cultivated a variety of crops, including maize, potatoes, arracacha, quinoa, sweet potatoes, yuca, peppers, tomatoes, beans, and pumpkins. The Muisca economy revolved around salt extraction from the northern parts of the Bogotá savanna. They engaged in trade, exchanging fruits and agricultural products with different climates. Funza, of which Mosquera was a southern part until 1861, was founded by the conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada on April 20, 1537. The Spanish conquest marked a significant shift in the region’s history. Presently, Mosquera has evolved into a satellite town of the capital, Bogotá. It has experienced substantial growth in recent years, reflecting its role as an urban center within the Bogotá metropolitan area. In 2022, Mosquera gained attention due to an unusual occurrence where a type of white foam covered the town. Residents reported an unpleasant smell accompanying the foam, and it affected large parts of the municipality. While locals took precautions such as using inhalers, no adverse effects on public health were officially recorded. This event added a unique chapter to the town’s recent history.

Geography of the city
Situated at coordinates 4°42′28″N latitude and 74°13′58″W longitude, Mosquera is strategically located within the Bogotá metropolitan area. The municipality and city of Mosquera cover a total area of 105.9 square kilometers (40.9 square miles). Within this expanse, the urban area spans 14.55 square kilometers (5.62 square miles). Nestled at an elevation of 2,516 meters (8,255 feet) above sea level, Mosquera enjoys a high-altitude setting. As of the 2018 census, Mosquera had a population of 130,221 residents within the entire municipality and city. The density was reported at 1,200 individuals per square kilometer. The urban area accounted for 128,012 residents, with an urban density of 8,800 individuals per square kilometer. These figures reflect the demographic landscape of Mosquera, highlighting its role as a populated urban center.