Overview:

Guatapé Rock, also known as El Peñol Stone or La Piedra del Peñol Stone in Latin American Spanish, is an immense monolith located in the town of Guatapé, Antioquia in Colombia. It stands at a height of 207 meters (679 feet) above the surrounding landscape. Guatapé Rock was formed by a huge mass of quartz, which is estimated to weigh some 10 million metric tons. Its peak was originally an island in the now-defunct Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir. An observation deck and 740-step staircase provides access to the top of the Rock, offering stunning views of the expansive lake and surrounding landscape. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Colombia
Prominent Features:

The most notable feature of Guatapé is the massive rock that overlooks the town, known as El Peñol or La Piedra de El Peñol. The immense monolith rises approximately 200 meters (650 ft) above the surrounding plateau and is visible from miles away. The rock is composed of quartz diorite, a coarse-grained igneous rock of volcanic origin, and is estimated to be over two billion years old. It can be reached via a flight of 659 stairs, giving access to an observation platform near the summit. From the top, visitors get a stunning view of the region's lush green countryside, as well as the many colorful villages scattered across the landscape. The rock also includes a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary which was built in 1967 and still remains today. This national monument of Colombia portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Guatapé Rock of Colombia is believed to have formed nearly 200 million years ago during the Jurassic Period. Rising 740 meters above sea level, the rock is a major tourist attraction in the Antioquia region where it is located. The rock is a monolithic granodiorite which is comprised of pink and grey minerals. Its flat-faced formation makes it a famously perfect perch for sightseeing. For centuries, tourists have come to see the sweeping views of the Piedra Azul and Pereira Reservoir which can be seen from its peak. The rock has held spiritualist value for locals for centuries, and is believed to have many secrets of the past buried in its core. Archaeological teams have found petroglyphs in its many crevices, which are believed to be part of an ancient religious site. It is interesting to note that the nearby area of El Peñol-Guatapé is home to hundreds of carvings that reside in the area, each expressing a different story and message. The rock itself is the central focus of the town of Guatapé, which surround it like a giant doughnut. The town has a unique aesthetic that makes it one of the most picturesque in Colombia. Its vibrant colors, flower-filled balconies and cobblestone alleyways make it an ideal place to explore. Today, Guatapé is bustling with tourists from all around the world who come to experience all Colombia has to offer. The rock remains an iconic symbol of the country, and a testament to its ancient history. You must visit one of these historical places in Colombia on your Colombia tour

Interesting facts:

1. Guatapé Rock is located on the shore of the Guatapé Reservoir in Colombia’s Antioquia department. 2. Guatapé is one of the country’s signature landmarks and stands 205 meters (673 feet) tall. 3. The total steps to its peak is 740, plus one last one for reaching the summit of the rock. 4. To get to the top, visitors have to climb up 649 steps of painted zigzags, with great paintings on them like a rainbow flag. 5. Its summit provides breathtaking views of stream-threaded hills and lakes as far as the eye can see. 6. There is a chapel, “Nuestra Señora de la Piedra”, at the summit which was built in 1945 and can hold 150 people. 7. The rock is shaped like a doughnut, with the outer ring of the rock called Piedra Del Penol. 8. It is possible to rent boats from Guatapé and navigate through the reservoir in order to admire the rock from afar. 9. Guatapé has been designated as a National Monument of Colombia. 10. The town of Guatapé is also known for its colorful streets and colonial buildings with painted walls. Visit one of the famous monuments of Colombia with your friends and family.