Cordillera
Colombia’s second city, with over 1.5 million inhabitants, lies 1300m (4264ft) above sea level in a narrow valley of the central mountain range. It is primarily industrial, and is the centre of the coffee and textile trades. The region has acquired a reputation for violence owing to the war between the Government and the drug barons.
The centre of the principal sugar-producing region of the country, where modern technology blends with colonial tradition. Deposits of coal and precious metals are found in this area.
A busy port and Colombia’s fourth city, Barranquilla is located towards the mouth of the Magdalena River. It is one of the nation’s main commercial centres. There is a colourful market in a side channel of the Magdalena.
|