Yumbo
Department
Flag of the city
Seal of the city
Slogan of the city
Yumbo, a charming town nestled in the Valle del Cauca department of Colombia, is known for its abundant agricultural output, pleasant climate, and welcoming community. This picturesque town graces the Andean region of Colombia, ensconced amidst verdant mountains and flourishing forests. Also known as the Pueblito Vallecaucano; It was built on the grounds of an old hacienda, and has a beautiful colonial chapel.
History
Modern-day Yumbo, established in 1536 under the leadership of Miguel Muñoz, has earned recognition as the industrial hub of Valle del Cauca. This region was formerly inhabited by the indigenous “Yumbo’s” tribe and is conveniently situated just north of Cali, a mere ten-minute drive from the Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport. Yumbo holds a special place in the hearts of Cali’s residents, who often flock here to bask in the warmth of its afternoons and savour its delectable cuisine.
Notably, Yumbo hosts some of the largest companies not only in Valle del Cauca but also across Colombia. Beyond its industrial prowess, the municipality boasts other attractions, including the picturesque Dapa district.
Geography
Yumbo, a compact yet industrially vibrant city and municipality situated in western Colombia, finds its home within the Valle del Cauca Department, positioned just to the north of the bustling metropolis of Cali. As of the year 2020, Yumbo boasted a population of around 110,000 residents. Geographically, Yumbo is located at coordinates 3°35′N latitude and 76°28′W longitude. With an elevation of 855 meters (2,805 feet) above sea level, Yumbo enjoys a relatively higher altitude compared to many other cities in Colombia, which often contributes to its climate and overall geographical characteristics. The municipality and town together span an area of 230.6 square kilometres (about 89.0 square miles), while the urban core occupies 31.6 square kilometres (approximately 12.2 square miles) of this expanse.
Population
110,069 (2020)
One photo representative of the city
The Church of the Lord of Good Consuelo, constructed during the period from 1928 to 1939, stands as one of the urban area’s most iconic architectural landmarks. It holds a special status as religious heritage, emphasizing the need for its restoration and preservation to safeguard the collective urban memory.
Similarly, the Chapel of the Lord of Good Hope, dating back to the early 20th century and situated on the former river port of “Puerto Isaacs,” serves as a historical and architectural focal point for the municipality of Yumbo. This building holds a significant place in both the town’s history and its architectural heritage
Etymology
The Yumbo people had acquired a deep knowledge of natural medicine derived from the abundant plants in their surroundings, and they generously shared this knowledge with neighbouring tribes. However, because of their remote and challenging living conditions in rugged, inaccessible terrain, the Yumbo also earned a somewhat mysterious reputation, often being regarded as witches or sorcerers.
As time passed, the Yumbo managed to extend their presence from the north-western rainforests and the misty heights of Quito to the coastal areas. This expansion was made feasible through the development of intricate road networks that interconnected their system of truncated pyramids, known as Tolas. These roads played a pivotal role in facilitating their expansion and interactions with neighbouring communities.
What the city is known or famous for
Yumbo holds the prestigious title of being the “Industrial Capital of Valle del Cauca.” This vibrant city serves as a bustling epicenter of economic, political, and cultural activity. With approximately 523 significant industrial, commercial, and service companies establishing their roots in Yumbo, it stands as a dynamic hub of enterprise and innovation in the region.