This is the Colombian municipality that is known as the "world capital" of a gemstone, a destination with history and tradition

Muzo, a municipality in the Colombian department of Boyacá, has long been recognized as the global capital of emeralds. Located approximately 144 kilometers from Tunja, this region is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The town's significance dates back to the colonial era, when Spanish conquistadors sought to establish settlements amid resistance from indigenous groups known as the Muzos. These native inhabitants were described by Spanish accounts as fierce warriors who worshipped the god Are, whom they believed to be their creator. The area's historical importance was further cemented with the founding of the Villa de la Santísima Trinidad de los Muzos in 1559 by Luis Lancheros. This settlement marked the first successful establishment by a Spaniard in the western part of Boyacá. Over time, Muzo became synonymous with emerald mining, a legacy that continues today. The town is often referred to as the world’s capital of emeralds due to its abundant deposits of this precious stone. Emerald mining in Muzo gained momentum during the so-called "emerald boom" of the 1980s, drawing thousands of people from different parts of the country seeking fortune through prospecting. While the extraction of emeralds remains the primary economic activity, other agricultural practices such as cassava, cocoa, coffee, and sugarcane cultivation have also become significant contributors to the local economy. Tourists visiting Muzo can explore several attractions, including the main park, the parish church of Our Lady of Naval, and the emerald mines themselves. Visitors can witness firsthand the process of extracting these valuable stones. In recent years, efforts have been made to support the work of women miners known as guaqueras, aiming to elevate their status, provide training, and facilitate the commercialization of their crafts. Artisanal jewelry crafted with emeralds and other materials is particularly notable and highly regarded. Another municipality within Boyacá, Otanche, is also linked to the allure of emeralds. Situated around 170 kilometers from Tunja, Otanche was once part of Muzo before being established as a separate municipality in 1960. The area was historically inhabited by the Muzo indigenous group, whose livelihood revolved around the possession, exploitation, and trade of emeralds prior to the arrival of the Spanish. Otanche lies in the foothills of the Eastern Cordillera, near the Magdalena River valley, and features a diverse landscape characterized by humid tropical zones and rugged terrain. Important geographical landmarks include the Sierra de Las Quinchas and the Cuy Heights. Major rivers flowing through the region, Minero, Chirche, Sacán, and Moras, are tributaries of the Magdalena River. The appeal of Otanche extends beyond its association with emeralds. It offers a range of agricultural activities, with crops such as coffee, honey cane, beans, cassava, plantains, and corn playing a vital role in the local economy. Additionally, artisanal production involving emeralds and quartz has become a significant industry, with products sold both domestically and internationally. Natural attractions in Otanche include the waterfall known as El Hilo, the caves called Las Cacas inhabited by bats and birds, Lake Leticia, and the Las Quinchas Forest Reserve, a crucial area for conservation spanning parts of Cundinamarca, Boyacá, and southern Santander. Today, while the fascination with emeralds still draws visitors, the region's ecological and scenic potential has emerged as another major draw for tourists seeking tranquil experiences amidst nature.