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Villa de Leyva

Declared a national monument in 1954, Villa de Leyva's colonial architecture has been preserved in its entirety, with cobblestone roads and whitewashed buildings. The physical beauty of the surrounding countryside and mild, dry climate have long attracted outsiders. The town was founded in 1572 by colonizer Hernán Suárez de Villalobos, and early on it was mainly a retreat for military officers, clergy and the nobility.

Villa de Leyva, Colombia - September 14, 2014: It is Sunday morning in Villa de Leyva and Calle or Street 14 is almost lifeless. The shops and restaurants will open; but, only towards noon. Founded in 1572 and located at just over 7000 feet above sea level on the Andes Mountains, Villa de Leyva was declared a National Monument in 1954 to protect it's colonial architecture and heritage. It is located in the Department of Boyaca, in the South American country of Colombia. In the background are the always present Andes Mountains. Photo shot in the morning sunlight; horizontal format. Copy space.

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