RIOSUCIO
Department
Flag of the city
Flag of the municipality of Riosucio (Caldas, Colombia): It is a rectangle 1.35 meters wide by 1.80 long, divided longitudinally into three strips of equal size (0.45 wide each): the upper one colored yellow; the middle one white; and the lower one green.
Slogan of the city
The city does not have a specific slogan. It is however, well known for its biennial carnival, one of the biggest and most popular in Colombia. The municipality was made part of the “Coffee cultural landscape”
History
The town of Riosucio, located in the Caldas Department of Colombia, has a history dating back to its founding on August 7, 1819. It was founded by José Bonifacio Bonafont and José Ramón Bueno. Riosucio was established during a period of significant historical events in Colombia, including the country’s struggle for independence from Spanish rule. The town’s founding in 1819 places it in the aftermath of Colombia’s declaration of independence on July 20, 1810, and the subsequent series of battles and conflicts. While the specific circumstances of Riosucio’s founding may not be widely documented, the town has likely played a role in the broader historical narrative of the region. Like many towns in Colombia, Riosucio has witnessed various phases of development, economic activities, and cultural changes over the years. One of the notable aspects of Riosucio is its vibrant and traditional carnival, known as the “Carnaval de Riosucio.” This annual celebration has deep cultural roots and is recognized as one of the oldest and most traditional carnivals in Colombia. It involves elaborate costumes, lively music, and unique characters representing different aspects of the town’s history and folklore. In the modern era, Riosucio continues to be a town with cultural richness and historical significance. The preservation of traditions, especially through events like the Carnaval de Riosucio, contributes to the town’s identity and attracts visitors interested in experiencing its unique cultural heritage.
Geography of the city
The municipality of Riosucio is situated in the western part of the Caldas Department in Colombia. It shares borders with the municipality of Supía to the east, Filadelfia to the southeast, the department of Risaralda to the south and west, and the department of Antioquia to the north. The total land area of the municipality covers 429.1 square kilometers. The town of Riosucio is positioned at an altitude of 1,783 meters above sea level. It is located 91 kilometers west of the departmental capital, Manizales. The geographical setting of Riosucio, with its elevated position and surrounding landscapes, contributes to the town’s unique character and may influence aspects of its climate and ecology.
Population
Total – 57,220 (2009)
One photo representative of the city
Etymology
The etymology of the name “Riosucio” has its roots in Spanish. In Spanish, “Río” translates to “River,” and “Sucio” translates to “Dirty” or “Muddy.” Therefore, “Riosucio” can be translated to mean “Dirty River” or “Muddy River.” The name might have originated from the characteristics of a local river or stream in the area, which may have had muddy or turbid waters. It’s common for the names of towns and cities to be influenced by geographic features or aspects of the natural environment in the region. As with many place names, the etymology of Riosucio reflects the historical and environmental context of the area, providing a linguistic connection to the geography of the town.
What the city is known or famous for
Riosucio, a town in Colombia, is best known for hosting the Carnival of Riosucio, an extraordinary biennial celebration that is officially named but more commonly referred to as the “Carnival of the Devil.” This carnival is a significant cultural event, drawing both local residents and visitors from various regions. Characterized by elaborate costumes worn by participants known as “caretos,” the carnival features vibrant masks, headdresses, and clothing. Historical characters, including “Belalcázar,” “Eva,” and “Francisco el Hombre,” play crucial roles in reenacting historical events, contributing to the rich narrative of the carnival. Accompanied by lively music and traditional dance performances, the Carnival of Riosucio has become one of the biggest and most popular carnivals in Colombia. Its biennial schedule allows for ample preparation, and the event has gained international recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Overall, the carnival stands as a symbol of Riosucio’s cultural identity and the vibrant traditions that make the town a unique and celebrated destination.
