Religious Tourism There are days when Bogotá transforms. Days when its colonial architecture, squares, and Andean sky become the stage for something extraordinary. This February 20, Colombia’s cultural capital will experience one of those moments.
In front of the imposing Primatial Cathedral, in the very heart of the historic center, one of Latin America’s most moving traditions will bloom: a handcrafted Guatemalan carpet, created as a symbol of faith, art, and brotherhood between nations.
Bogotá doesn’t just welcome it. Bogotá embraces it.
A legacy recognized by the world
In Guatemala, Holy Week is much more than a religious commemoration: it is a collective expression of identity that unites entire generations.
In 2022, this tradition was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its universal value and its power as a cultural symbol.
The carpets—handcrafted from dyed sawdust, flowers, and natural materials—were born during the colonial era as a way to honor the passing of processions. Over time, they evolved into true masterpieces of ephemeral art.
Each design is a statement of devotion; each figure an act of faith; each color an expression of hope.
In cities such as Antigua Guatemala, the streets transform during Lent into monumental tapestries that blend artisanal precision and deep symbolism. Entire families work from dawn, knowing their creation will be walked over and eventually vanish. And precisely there lies its greatness: in the beauty of what is offered without any intention of permanence.
This February 20, that tradition will cross borders to meet Bogotá.
Bogotá, a capital that connects the world
That this carpet be placed at the entrance of the Primatial Cathedral is no coincidence. Bogotá is a city in dialogue with the world. A capital that safeguards its heritage while opening space to other cultures.
Here, colonial history coexists with contemporaneity; spirituality is expressed through music, architecture, and civic gatherings; and traditions travel and find a home.
As part of the launch of the religious tourism campaign, the concert by the Heralds of the Gospel, with the special visit of Our Lady of Sorrows from Tocancipá, will mark an hour of reflection, solemnity, and musical beauty.
Before entering the temple, attendees will encounter the Guatemalan carpet: intense colors, delicate textures, natural aromas, and the unforgettable sensation of standing before something that exists only for an instant yet lingers in memory.
It will not be merely an artistic installation; it will be a symbol of Latin American brotherhood.
More than seeing it, living it
For locals and visitors alike, this is a unique opportunity. It is not every day that a world-renowned tradition travels thousands of miles to settle in the heart of the Colombian capital.
Stopping in front of the carpet means understanding the power of art as a spiritual language.
It means recognizing the value of craftsmanship. It is seeing Bogotá transformed into the stage for a cultural dialogue that transcends borders.
If you’re in the city, or if you were looking for a reason to visit, this is the moment. Bogotá awaits you with history, music, living heritage, and a carpet made of faith, color, and hope. Because there are experiences that cannot be explained; they are walked, contemplated, and kept in the heart forever.
Experience Holy Week in Bogotá and discover its full cultural, heritage, and spiritual offering at visitbogota.co.
