Trivia in Colombia

Learn fascinating facts and trivia about this country

Americas / South America

National symbols

Flag: Three horizontal stripes of yellow-blue-red (yellow is double width), symbolizing independence and sovereignty

Colombia Flag

Emblem: A shield-shaped emblem with a condor holding the national flag. The shield depicts gold, a Phrygian cap, pomegranate, and other symbols

Colombia Emblem

Trivia & facts

  • About 70–80% of the world's emerald supply comes from Colombia
  • The national flower is Cattleya trianae, a type of orchid
  • Colombia is a leading representative of "mild coffee" among the world's top three coffee varieties
  • One of the top birding destinations in the world with over 1,900 recorded species
  • National ID numbers are issued at age 14, just before adulthood, rather than at birth
  • Bogotá's BRT bus system "TransMilenio" is a success story of South American urban transit
  • The "Vuelta a Colombia" bicycle road race is held every July
  • Tejo, the national sport, involves throwing a metal disc at a clay target to explode gunpowder
  • Some regions use "calabazo" (gourd cups) instead of wine glasses
  • "Arepa Boyacense," a highland bread with cheese, is very popular

Back to list