A Guide to Colombian Culture | Medellin Singles

Let’s take a closer look at what helped shape Colombian culture.

Presently, Colombia is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. This is hardly a surprise, given all the country has to offer. But behind the trendy nightlife spots and gorgeous beaches is a history that spans centuries.

Colombian culture is one of the richest in the world. Even at present, there are reportedly over 100 distinct indigenous groups that live in the country. These are the ones whose origins predate the arrival of Christopher Columbus. Most of these groups, however, tend to live rurally.

The regions of Colombia are as individualistic as they are fiercely Colombian.

• The Rolos of Bogota

  Bogota is the capital city of Colombia and is also the largest. The city is more international than the others, with easier access to the rest of Latin America, Europe, and the US. It’s in Bogota where one may find the most number of international chains of fast food in Colombia. It also has no less than 137 universities. Perhaps this is why Rolos are often described as intelligent and liberal-minded.

• The Quilleros of Barranquilla

  Locals of the country’s Golden Gate would say that Barranquilla was never a Spanish settlement, nor was it founded by those that came before. The city was born of trading — a result of industry and cooperation. The locals are hardworking and are a bit more understated than their Colombian relatives.

• The Caleños of Cali

  Known all around the world as the Salsa Capital, Caleños love to dance and can make anyone love it too.

• The Cartageneros of Cartagena

  Hot Cartagena in the Caribbean, where life takes a leisurely stroll. The Cartageneros are said to be the more laidback among the energetic Colombians.

• The Paisas of Medellin

  Among the cities of Colombia, Medellin stands out as having the most pleasant climate in the country. It’s known as the City of Eternal Spring, and many travelers who have had the good fortune of visiting this city will attest to the bright and sunny natures of Paisas, as the people of Medellin call themselves.

To list down all the regions and their individual nuances could make a book, that’s how interesting Colombia is.

Colombians can be described in broad strokes, but it takes time and an open mind to really get to know them.

Represented by a people generally characterized by their optimism, national pride, and love of family, the Colombia of today shows the influence of its Spanish colonizers yet bears its own distinct national identity.

Overview of Colombia’s History

Colombian culture is best understood if you know the country’s history.

Colombia was originally ruled by various tribes of Amerindians. They had established their own social systems and practiced trade with each other all across the country.

In the 16th century, not too long after being discovered in 1499, Colombia was colonized by the Spanish and remained under Spain’s rule for almost 300 years.

The Spaniards brought Roman Catholicism to the country, an influence that is felt at present. They also brought in slaves from Africa to mine the silver and gold found on the Pacific coast.

Today, the majority of the people of Colombia are the descendants of the Amerindians, the Spaniards, and the Africans; the three major racial groups that had left their imprint on the land.

As mentioned before, while most Colombians display great national pride, they are also regionalistic. The Rolos of Bogota, the Caleños of Cali, and the Paisas of Medellin all have something from their specific regions that they point to with pride.

Among all the cities and regions of Colombia, Medellin is perhaps the best example of how history can shape the way a people is perceived.

There are anecdotes from some expats describing the people of Medellin as having more European physical traits than their fellow Colombians. This, of course, can be easily dismissed as a stereotype, for the people of Medellin are just as diverse in appearance as anywhere else in Colombia.

However, the stereotype may have its roots in the history of the city.

There are some theories that state that Jewish people escaping the Spanish Inquisition were the first settlers of Medellin. Another is that they were actually Spaniards from the Extremadura region.

Whichever group it was, the one thing history adheres to is that Medellin was settled by several waves of European settlers sometime around the 16th to the 17th century.

Additionally, there have been DNA studies conducted among Medellin locals that seem to point to a strong European influence in the Paisa genetic makeup.

In any case, whenever tourists and expats bring up the people of Medellin, they would often mention the head-turning beauty of the women of Medellin. But this is something that is said of Colombian women in general.

Medellin’s history contributed not only to the Paisa identity but to Colombia in general. This may be because Medellin has been a central figure in Colombia’s more recent and widely documented history, and modern-day media plays it up with shows about drug cartels.

Though most foreigners associate Medellin in particular with its violent past, most people from Medellin want nothing more to do with it. Many citizens don’t like when the topic of cartels is raised.

As far as most people from Medellin are concerned, that era belongs to the past. A foreigner would see reminders of that dark time in the art scene and tourism programs, but most people from Medellin are quick to point out that they simply refuse to forget what they’ve been through.

But they also refuse to be defined by their past. They’re far more interested in what the future will bring.

Language

Language also plays an important role in shaping Colombian culture.

There are 37 major languages spoken in Colombia, but Spanish is recognized as the official language of the country. English, too, has a place in Colombian vocabulary. Many Colombians speak English well.

Colombian Spanish is unique from the one spoken in Spain, and even from other Spanish-speaking nations. Additionally, there are different regions of the country with their own Spanish-based dialects.

What makes Colombian Spanish so unique? When compared to the Spanish spoken in Spain, learners would be able to point out certain differences in pronunciations, vocabulary, tenses, and pronouns. Some Spanish speakers also claim that it has crystal-clear pronunciation and sounds quite musical.

Colombia is a good place for those who may want to learn Spanish and are thinking of immersing themselves in a country of native speakers. Many Spanish learners say that Colombian Spanish is easy to understand and the people tend to speak slowly, pronouncing their words clearly.

Colombians are also known for their warm, friendly personalities. They’re approachable and enjoy conversations. If one was learning a new language, it’s always helpful to be among native speakers to practice daily conversations with.

The people of Medellin are known to be the friendliest in a country of hospitable people. Many travelers and expats find that it’s easier to strike up a conversation and form friendships among Paisas.

Social Etiquette

Like any other nation in the world, Colombians practice sets of social etiquette to make interacting with each other harmonious. These sets differ depending on the social situation they are applied to.

• Family

  Generally, Colombians are close to their families, and they follow a hierarchy of respect when in the company of their loved ones.

  Being a largely patriarchal society, the father is usually regarded as the leader of the household. Colombia has made strides toward gender equality, but it’s still common for men to be primary income earners.

  Modern Colombian women hold down jobs and also manage the households. Many of them don’t mind being full-time homemakers.

  It’s also not uncommon for Colombians to live with relatives. Most families take care of their elderly. Grandparents also have a say in the day to day lives of the family.

  When visiting a Colombian household for the first time, it’s a common practice to bring a small gift for the host.

  Verbal greetings are acceptable ways of greeting someone for the first time. Kissing on the cheek is considered informal, acceptable only for people who know each other well, and usually limited between women. Men may also greet women with an air kiss, but, again, this is limited to people who know each other very well.

  If a first-time visitor is invited to a Colombian family gathering, they may be overwhelmed by just how many people there are. But Colombians are generally hospitable and are known to treat guests as though they, too, are members of the family.

  Most Colombians like it when their guests mingle with them, taking the time to exchange respectful pleasantries. Women, generally the cooks and household managers, appreciate compliments on their cooking.

  Generally, Colombians are very neat eaters. They like to use utensils for everything, even eating fruit. Eating with one’s hands is usually frowned upon.

• Social Interactions

  Most Colombians are cheerful people who love good food and conversation, but they observe good manners around each other.

  Usually, only close friends and relatives can visit each other without calling first. Otherwise, Colombians appreciate it when guests wait for them to extend an invitation.

  For social engagements, Colombians generally don’t observe punctuality. This is usually expected and not something that’s allowed to ruin the mood. But they’re more strict when it comes to business or other formal appointments and they would avoid tardiness.

  In Colombia, it’s usually seen as a gesture of politeness to pay if one is inviting others to go out.

• Dating

  In Colombia’s largely patriarchal society, certain rules of conduct are expected of men when dating a Colombian woman.

  The man is usually expected to take the lead. Generally, he’ll have to plan out the date, like picking out the restaurant and the things to do. He’ll be expected to pay for everything as well. Chivalrous behavior impresses most Colombian women, such as their date opening doors and pulling out chairs for them.

  Dating in Colombia may not be a “casual engagement,” but a Colombian woman may be late more often than not. But when they do turn up, they can make their dates’ jaws drop.

  Colombian women value their physical appearance and they put in effort to look good, even when they’re just going out for a walk. A date is one of those events when they can go all out.

The list above is, by far, just a general and basic one. It doesn’t encompass just how diverse Colombia really is.

Dating, for instance, is a more intimate kind of social engagement. Though a man can form a basic understanding of Colombian women in general, he’ll have to keep in mind that these women have quirks to their personalities that may be attributed to the region they come from.

A man shouldn’t assume that a woman from Bogota would like the same things as someone from Medellin. The two regions are different in weather, pace of lifestyle, and even ways of expressing themselves.

The best way to really get to know what daily life is like in Colombia is to experience it for oneself.

Values

Colombians are proud people, and they show their dignity by living their lives honoring their values. They consider values to be important rules, not just a way to look nice in front of others.

In Colombian culture, family is highly valued and plays a central role in daily life.

• Family

  Once more, the family takes center stage in Colombian life. Most Colombians prioritize the needs of their families above their own. Children are expected to obey and respect their parents. Parents are expected to be responsible and nurturing toward their children. It’s not uncommon for parents to allow their adult children to live with them.

  The older members of the family are regarded with the most respect. Usually, their blessings are required for any choice a family member might make. For example, if a young Colombian woman wishes to get married, she has to inform her parents of that first.

  Colombians who love and respect their elders don’t subscribe to the “better to ask for forgiveness than permission” mentality.

  It may seem as though Colombians are too dependent on each other, but that’s only a difference in perspective.

  Love of family is a force to be reckoned with in Colombia; it’s not just for reputation or even a wrongful idea that no one outside of the family is trustworthy.

  The love of Colombians for their families motivates them to do their best in all areas because their families benefit from their efforts. They find fulfillment in the well-being of their loved ones.

• Gender Roles

  Colombia has embraced modernization, from technological advances to gender equality. The Government at a Glance Latin America and the Caribbean 2020 Country Fact Sheet revealed that as of 2018, 48% of public employees were women.

  Given this, most of their old-school values still manage to coexist with modern ones.

  While women have equal rights and access to opportunities as men, they are usually still the ones who are expected to care for the home and the children.

  Many women juggle work and family life, but they take pride in their accomplishments in both areas.

  Women are also still expected to adhere to decorum when out in society, yet they’re confident when expressing their opinions and emotions.

  The values expected to be upheld by men have generally stayed the same. Men value “machismo.” They’re expected to be self-reliant and assertive. They’re usually the ones making the decisions and earning the higher income.

  Generally, the machismo of Colombian men allows, even encourages them to be flirtatious with women. But they’re usually protective of the female members of their families.

Some people think Colombian values are old-fashioned; others, notably those who have actually spent time in the country, would say that they’re timeless. Colombians have found a way to integrate their values, many of which were formed during the infancy of their country, with modern norms.

Their family ties have seen them through many struggles. If a Colombian migrates to another country, the family he or she leaves behind is rest assured that should they follow, they have someone they can call.

Alternatively, foreign-born Colombians with family in their native country will be assured of welcome and care should they ever want to return to their homeland.

Extended family members are usually available to babysit when needed. Considering that many people in Colombia are not well off, family members are the first people one can turn to when in financial need.

As for gender roles, Colombia has seen many of its women excel in their careers while maintaining domestic harmony. It’s no easy feat, but Colombian women certainly pull it off time and again.

It’s also a mistake to think of women from Colombia as weak and servile. These Latinas are strong-willed and resilient. Their naturally family-oriented nature only strengthens them, allowing them to reach out in compassion toward others.

For example, in Medellin, women have formed movements that empower other women. They’ve enacted programs that prevent violence against women and children and provide employment for single mothers and women from low-income areas.

All this, and they generally still remain loving and feminine. Now that’s something that should be valued.

Religion

Religion remains a uniquely human experience. At once unifying and polarizing, beliefs in a higher power have determined the fates of nations all through history.

Religion plays an important part of Colombian culture.

Colombia has certainly felt the influence of Roman Catholicism, though the country itself doesn’t profess an official religion. Brought to its shores by Spanish colonizers, Catholicism has become a part of the public life of most Colombians.

Several surveys and studies suggest that around 90% of Colombians are Christian, though not all of this 90% are Catholic.

In 2014, Pew Research Centre speculated that of the 90% Christian members of the population, 13% were Protestants, while 79% identified as Catholic.

Nearly all Colombians believe in God, and Catholicism has become their primary way of expressing that faith. Majority of Colombians have their lives marked by Catholic ceremonies, such as baptism, first communion and confirmation, and marriage.

Religious influences have also shaped the way people speak.

Though Catholicism, in particular, was brought to Colombia through colonization, its continuing presence in the country seems to be by choice of the people.

Perhaps the Colombians’ affinity for the faith has helped them get through the worst of their country’s history. One of the main tenets of Christianity, after all, is to suffer without surrendering to despair.

Medellin is an excellent example of Colombians transforming themselves from a troubled past into a brighter tomorrow, while still holding on to their faith through the roughest times.

In Medellin, one may find many beautiful and well-maintained churches. One of them is so old, it has reportedly seen a civil war. Most, if not all, of these churches have certainly been around during the worst of the conflicts Medellin has suffered. Yet they remained standing, offering places of refuge for the faithful.

Today, these churches are often full, celebrating the important events in the lives of Colombian people, such as baptisms and weddings.

Colombian Festivals

If there’s one thing foreign guests of Colombia can attest to, it’s the love of the locals for a good party. It’s little wonder then that Colombia has many festivals so lively and full of flair that they have become irresistible to tourists.

Colombian culture shows traditions through festivals.

• La Feria de Cali

  Held in December, the Cali Fair impresses with fashion shows, musical performances, bullfights, and the salsa festivals.

  This festival is another example of the positivity of most Colombians. The origins of the Cali Fair are quite tragic. In 1956, there was a huge explosion in the City of Santiago de Cali which claimed hundreds of lives and took a toll on the city’s economy.

  The fair was organized as a way to reactivate the city’s flagging economy and lift the spirits of the people. And, in true Colombian fashion, the locals embraced the fair wholeheartedly.

  Today, the Cali Fair is one of the most important celebrations of the region.

• Barranquilla Carnival

  This festival is massive; it’s actually one of the largest carnival celebrations in the world, second only to the one held in Rio de Janeiro.

  Held in Barranquilla at the beginning of February, the Carnival nevertheless amps up excitement by beginning with the preparations as early as January. The Carnival offers dances, parades, and musical performances.

  These performances are based on local traditions and historical events. Carnival of Barranquilla celebrates the diverse traditions and heritages of Colombia.

• Blacks and Whites Carnival

  One of the oldest festivals in Colombia, the Blacks and Whites Carnival is held in the city of Pasto in the month of January.

  UNESCO has designated this festival as among the Masterpieces of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

• Feria de las Flores or the Flower Festival

  Taking place in Medellin, Antioquia, this festival is the only one on this list that happens in the middle of the year.

  The Flower Festival takes place in August and lasts for about ten days. It’s a celebration of Antioquia’s cut flower industry, which is one of the largest in the world. The festival is an important part of the region’s culture.

  Some of the world’s most beautiful cut flowers are imported from Antioquia. In America, an estimated 70% of imported cut flowers come from Colombia.

  Perhaps the crowning glory of the festival is the El Defile de los Silleteros, the parade dedicated to the silleteros, or the people who cultivate and craft flowers into amazing art to be carried on their backs.

  Other than the exhibitions, the festival also hosts dances and traditional foods. Not much presence here of any fast food in Colombia.

Colombians have earned their reputation as joyful people. In light of all they have struggled through, their happy nature is all the more poignant.

Foreigners are welcome to enjoy the festivities with the locals. The festivals are some of the biggest tourist draws in the country. Colombians love a good party, and the best parties have fun-loving guests.

Colombian Cuisine

Food has a way of capturing the spirit of a people. The Colombian people are diverse and so are their cuisines, yet there are some things that tie them together when it comes to their palates.

Colombian cooking is heavy on meat and rice and can be characterized as being flavorful. The people also love soup and typically serve it with most dishes.

Another thing the cuisine has going for it is that no matter how delicious a dish is, it tends to have the element of comfort food.

This makes sense, as Colombians are family-oriented, and home-cooked meals are served primarily for one’s loved ones.

There are several dishes said to come from Medellin that are at once regional yet distinctly Colombian:

• Lechona

  This is slow-cooked pork that’s combined with rice, green onions, and yellow peas. Locals usually serve this dish whenever there are large gatherings, or even on Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

• Mondongo

  A very popular soup in Medellin and greater Colombia, mondongo is an intriguing combination of pork, hen, potatoes, yuca, and sausage.

• Empanada

  Like a snack, only meatier. Empanadas are all over Latin America. The Colombian twist to it is that the empanada is deep-fried and stuffed with anything that fills the stomach: meat, eggs, vegetables, rice, and potatoes.

• Bandeja paisa

  This dish is so popular among locals that it’s unofficially Colombia’s national dish.

  It’s a heavy and hearty meal, with white rice, ground beef, corn, fried egg, arepa, fried plantain, red beans, and avocado.

  This is just a single serving on one platter. It was once known as the “workman’s platter” – a dish that was put together with the goal of giving peasant workers enough energy to keep them going all through the day.

• Arepas Paisa

  Typically, in Colombia, arepas are flat cornbread that looks like pancakes. They’re versatile, and they can be grilled, baked, or even fried. The filling used will depend on the region. In Medellin, they’re usually stuffed with cheese and butter.

Traditional cuisine is one of the many pleasures that people seek whenever they travel to a different country. However, some people may still want a taste of home.

Colombia doesn’t disappoint. There are corporate chains of fast food in Colombia that will satisfy anyone.

But any visitor to the country should really give its home-cooked meals a try. In Colombia, lunchtime is generally the day’s big meal.

In fact, the majority of workers have lunch breaks that last for two hours. Some even go back home so they can enjoy the day’s most substantial meal with their families.

Dinner is lighter compared to lunch, and many Colombians just have what is the equivalent of a snack to Americans, such as the Arepas Paisa.

However, if one is having dinner in a restaurant, the spread would be more substantial. Also, when dining out, tipping is customary.

FAQs

• What are some interesting cultural facts about Colombia?

  • Colombia is generally a safe place for travelers, even solo female travelers. Common sense and vigilance are advised, of course, but the same thing can be said about any country one can visit.

  • Colombia is frequently named in international surveys as one of the happiest countries in the world. The Hope Foundation even ranked it as the happiest country in their Barometer of Happiness in 2013 and 2014.

  • Colombians love music, especially dance music, but they don’t adhere to one style. Most Colombians love a mix of salsa, vallenato, reggaeton, bachata, and cumbia.

• Are Colombians friendly to foreigners?

  In a word, yes! In fact, most travelers and expats who have spent time in the country would say that the country is one of the most hospitable in the world.

  Not only that, but they’re also noted to be helpful. Many tourists would attest to the willingness of Colombians to help out a stranger.

  That said, the level of helpfulness may vary among regions. For instance, Bogota is a big and busy city. Rolos, as people from Bogota are often referred to, are often described by other Colombians as “distant and cold.” Whereas the Paisas of Medellin are more likely to engage a foreign stranger in conversation on the street.

  This is more of a difference in lifestyle than attitude. Rolos are more used to a faster way of life, often busy and hurried, not unlike the go-getters of New York City.

• Is Colombia a traditional country?

  Colombians celebrate and incorporate the diverse traditions that helped to shape their country into their everyday lives. Each region has several traditions all their own.

  Yet, Colombia as a whole is open to progress and modernization. Medellin is noted for being open and accommodating to the world’s rising workforce of digital nomads.

• How do you show respect in Colombia?

  • When one is invited to a Colombian’s house, it’s best to accept. This is commonly a way for Colombians to say they want to be real friends. If one can’t accept, it’s best to politely say no and reschedule the visit.

  • Greetings and pleasantries generally take time. Colombians show genuine interest in each other, asking about each other’s families, health, etc.

  • If one is invited to dinner, there are certain rules to be observed:

    • Wait until you’re seated by the host.

    • The eating begins only after the host says, “Buen provecho.”

    • Serve yourself only what you know you can eat, but even so, be mindful to leave a little bit of food on your plate.

Conclusion

Colombia has come a long way, with a history marked with trials but also opportunities for the people to show the world what they’re really made of.

It’s a country that has stayed true to its deepest roots, all the way to the first peoples that had called the land home.

For tourists and travelers, Colombia’s natural resources, biodiversity, culture, and warmhearted people are compelling reasons to visit.

However, there are also those who may be considering Colombia as a place to live, and the growing expat community is a good answer as to why Colombia may be a nice place to call home someday.