Colombia

Colombia is a country located in the northwest corner of South America. It has an area of 1,141,748 square kilometres (440,831 sq mi) and its capital city is Bogotá. Colombia borders Panama to the north-west, Venezuela to the east and Brazil and Peru to the south. The Caribbean Sea lies along its northern coast making it one of only two countries in South America with access to both Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean waters.

The main language spoken in Colombia is Spanish but there are approximately 80 other languages spoken by indigenous groups across the country including Kuna Yala (San Blas), Wayuú, Embera Wounaan , Awa Guaja , Arhuaco , Wiwa Barí/Kagaba In addition English can be found among coastal communities while French Creole or Palenquero was brought over during colonial times by African slaves who arrived on Colombian shores from present day Haiti .

Since becoming independent from Spain in 1819 following a long period under military rule known as La Violencia which lasted until 1958 when General Gustavo Rojas Pinilla stepped down leading way for democracy; Colombians have enjoyed full political freedom accompanied by great cultural diversity due largely due influxes of immigrants from Europe Africa Asia Middle East Central America etc.. This melting pot culture has given rise unique cuisine art music dance folklore fashion etc… All these influences make up what makes today’s contemporary Colombian culture so special .

Economic development within Colombia began slowly picking pace after 1950s when foreign investment started pouring into oil gas mining agricultural industries creating much needed jobs wealth national infrastructure services such as education healthcare transportation utilities communications banking finance insurance tourism hospitality technology amongst others Despite having seen some turbulent moments throughout recent history especially related violence between various armed guerrillas drug trafficking paramilitary activities illegal armed forces authorities human rights violations corruption poverty inequality ; since 2002 warring sides signed peace treaty bringing relative stability security economic growth prosperity nation wide through government initiatives private sector support social programs incentives Today stands proud host numerous international events sporting competitions conferences being considered one most visited tourist destinations Latin American region thanks abundant natural resources attractions that it offers visitors diverse mix cultures lifestyles climates landscapes flora fauna architecture gastronomy parks reserves historic sites world heritage monuments vibrant cities towns villages alike providing something every visitor taste budget expectation level preference experience life changing memories !