Tolima Department

Tolima Department is one of the 32 departments of Colombia, located in the Andean region, in the center-west of the country. It is bordered on the north and the west by the department of Caldas; on the east by the department of Cundinamarca; on the south by the department of Huila, and on the west by the departments of Risaralda and Quindío. The capital of Tolima is Ibagué.

History

The Tolima Department was created in 1861, during the constitution of 1863. The region was inhabited by various indigenous tribes before the arrival of the Spanish, including the Pijao and Panche.

Geography

Tolima has a diverse geography with plains in the valley of the Magdalena River, mountains in the Andes and tropical rainforest in the Amazon. The department's main river is the Magdalena River, and it also contains the Nevado del Tolima, a snow-capped volcano.

Economy

The economy of Tolima is based on agriculture, with significant production of rice, cotton, coffee, cocoa and fruits. The department is also known for its gold mines and its industry, particularly in the production of steel and cement.

Culture

Tolima is known for its rich culture, particularly its music and dance. The department is home to the Festival Folclórico Colombiano, one of the most important folklore festivals in Colombia. The cuisine of Tolima is also notable, with dishes such as Lechona Tolimense, a stuffed pork dish, and Tamales Tolimenses, a type of tamale.

See also

• List of municipalities in Tolima
• Music of Tolima
• Cuisine of Tolima