Tucked away in the heart of Ubaté Province in Cundinamarca, just 88 kilometers north of Bogotá, lies the picturesque town of Sutatausa, one of the most important historical places in Colombia.
Its name, derived from the Muisca language, means “small tribute,” echoing the town’s deep-rooted indigenous heritage.
Today, Sutatausa offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the most memorable historical places in Colombia for travelers seeking a tranquil and enriching experience.
A Harmonious Blend of History, Nature, and Art
At an altitude of approximately 2,550 meters above sea level, Sutatausa enjoys a temperate climate, ranging between 9°C and 16°C.
The town is surrounded by the dramatic Farallones cliffs, peaceful rivers, and highland lagoons that add to its scenic charm.
But it’s not just the landscape that draws visitors—its cultural richness sets it apart among Colombia’s many historical destinations.
The Doctrinal Complex: A Colonial Heritage Gem
One of the most captivating historical places in Colombia is the San Juan Bautista Doctrinal Complex, an architectural and spiritual legacy from the colonial era.
Built by Spanish missionaries between the 16th and 19th centuries to evangelize indigenous communities, 22 such complexes once stood across the territory.
Today, only four remain, and Sutatausa’s is considered the best preserved.
This striking complex includes:
- A central doctrinal plaza
- Four capillas posas (corner chapels)
- An ante-chapel and the main temple of San Juan Bautista
- A now-lost atrial cross that once symbolized the sacred grounds
Construction began around 1642 by the Franciscan order. Over time, new elements were added.
The Baptistery and the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows in 1750, followed by the Brotherhood Chapel and the bell tower in 1819.
These elements together create a powerful example of colonial religious architecture, rooted in history and deeply meaningful for cultural travelers.
Unveiling the Murals of San Juan Bautista
In 1996, during restoration work by the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH), eight stunning murals were discovered beneath layers of lime.
These 17th-century artworks depict scenes from the Passion of Christ, including the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, and were painted using vegetable-based pigments on stone and stucco surfaces.
The murals are particularly notable for their visual storytelling—intended to teach Christian doctrine to the indigenous population—and for the fusion of native and European iconography.
For example, the Virgin Mary is shown wearing a mantle that resembles traditional indigenous textiles, a testament to the syncretism found in many historical places throughout Colombia.
The Legend of the Hidden "Potro"
Adding a mysterious element to the site is a dark, hidden chamber within one of the side chapels.
Inside sits an object that resembles a “potro”—a device linked to colonial-era punishments or perhaps the Inquisition.
While its origin is still debated, the presence of such an artifact deepens the aura of intrigue that surrounds this sacred place.
The Cultural Heritage Museum of Sutatausa
Next to the temple, the former rectory now serves as the Cultural Heritage Museum, home to religious and historical artifacts once scattered throughout the complex. Highlights include:
- Bronze bells from the 19th century
- Colonial-era paintings and sculptures
- An 1846 harmonium
- Traditional garments and ceremonial objects
Thanks to the discovery of the murals and conservation efforts, these pieces were curated and brought together to give visitors a broader context of the region’s colonial past.
It’s a museum that complements the doctrinal complex perfectly—another reason Sutatausa ranks high among the top historical places in Colombia.
Whether you’re passionate about colonial history, fascinated by religious art, or simply seeking a tranquil escape with cultural depth, Sutatausa offers a window into the soul of Colombia’s past.
Visiting the San Juan Bautista Doctrinal Complex is more than a historical outing—it’s an immersive journey into centuries of art, faith, and human resilience.
Among the many historical places in Colombia, this complex stands out for its preservation, its stories told through architecture and art, and the serenity that surrounds it.
It’s the kind of place that invites quiet reflection, deep appreciation, and a renewed sense of wonder.
At Sumangá Hotel Boutique, located just a short walk from the complex, we welcome you to stay in comfort and connect with the timeless spirit of Sutatausa.
Let us be your starting point as you explore one of Colombia’s most meaningful cultural treasures.