Foundational Square of Engativá

The Founding Plaza of Engativá is a historically and culturally significant space for the city. This area of ​​the capital was an ancient Muisca settlement that served as a strategic point for the Spanish conquistadors to divide and marginalize the indigenous population of the Bogotá savanna. 

Its Spanish founding was in 1537, and it initially served as a meeting and trading point for local inhabitants and colonists. The territory had various water sources, such as streams, creeks, lagoons, and, of course, the Bogotá River, where the inhabitants fished and swam. During the colonial period, the tradition of celebrating the feast of Saint Isidore, patron saint of farmers, was consolidated.

During the first decades of the republican era, communal land ownership of the indigenous reserve was eliminated, and the land was distributed individually. However, most of the land was bought from the natives for ridiculously low prices, and they became day laborers. In 1954, the municipality was annexed to Bogotá. 

Over time, it has retained its colonial design and influence, with green spaces and historic buildings. Today, the plaza remains a central and iconic venue for cultural and social events, strengthening the sense of community in Engativá.