Santa Marta: 500 years of history and ongoing challenges

This year, Santa Marta, the Pearl of the Caribbean, celebrates 500 years of existence, making it one of the oldest cities in South America and a symbol of Colombia’s natural and cultural richness.

Since its founding in 1525, the city has witnessed colonial history and evolved into a vibrant community that blends tradition with modernity.

Santa Marta stands out for its architectural heritage, such as the Catedral Basílica de Santa Marta and the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, where el Libertador Simón Bolívar spent his final days. Nature displays its splendor in places like the Parque Tayrona and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, home to unique ecosystems and ancestral Indigenous communities.

Santa Marta, with its strong identity, captivates those who get to know it: its climate, beaches, biodiversity, the warmth of its people, and its cultural richness make it truly unique.

The people of Santa Marta—samarios—have a distinct character. They are joyful, hospitable, kind, spontaneous, and excellent hosts who make you feel “at home” and willingly share their culture and way of life.

Despite these positive attributes, the city faces structural challenges that affect both its development and the quality of life of its inhabitants.

Insufficient access to clean water, unresolved sewage issues, and contamination of water sources—along with inadequate urban infrastructure and waste management—remain urgent problems to address.

Unplanned urban growth, deteriorated roads, and a lack of adequate public services contribute to a lower quality of life.

With 500 years of history, Santa Marta holds a legacy that must be valued and preserved. However, to ensure sustainable development, it is imperative for authorities, the community, and the private sector to work together to solve these structural issues. Investment in water infrastructure, sanitation, and mobility is essential to improve living conditions and to make responsible use of the city’s natural and cultural wealth.

Celebrating these 500 years is not only about honoring the past—it is also about committing to a future in which Santa Marta remains a shining example of history, resilience, and progress for Colombia and the world.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Maru Ulivi