Pasto history

The city of Pasto, officially known as San Juan de Pasto, is one of the oldest cities in southern Colombia and possesses a rich and complex history, closely interwoven with indigenous cultures and a colonial past.

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Pasto's founding is a subject of debate among historians, but most sources agree that the city was established by Spanish conquistadors between 1537 and 1539. Initially, the settlement was founded in the Atriz Valley, on lands inhabited by the indigenous Quillacinga people. Two names are mentioned among the founders: Sebastián de Belalcázar and Lorenzo de Aldana, each playing a role in the exploration of these territories. The definitive establishment at its current location is often attributed to Lorenzo de Aldana in 1539.

Key Factors of Establishment

The development of Pasto was driven by several important factors:

• Geographical Location: The city is situated at an altitude of over 2,500 metres above sea level at the foot of the Galeras Volcano, in a strategically important Andean region. This made it a key point on the route between major colonial centres, such as Quito (now Ecuador) and Popayán.
• Political Role: During the colonial period and the wars of independence, Pasto was known for its staunch loyalty to the Spanish Crown, earning the nickname "The Royal Bastion". This stance led to numerous conflicts but also shaped the city's unique identity.
• Trade and Administration: Thanks to its location, Pasto became a vital administrative and commercial hub for the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, the culture of Pasto represented a synthesis of Spanish traditions and the beliefs of indigenous peoples, such as the Pastos and Quillacingas. The economy relied on agriculture, which flourished on fertile volcanic soils. Furthermore, the city became renowned for its handicrafts. Particular fame was gained by a unique lacquering technique known as "Barniz de Pasto" — an art form inherited from pre-Columbian times. Wood carving, leather embossing, and weaving also developed. These artisanal traditions remain an important part of the city's cultural heritage to this day.

Key Milestones in the History of Pasto

The history of Pasto is a kaleidoscope of events reflecting its strategic importance and cultural distinctiveness. Founded at the foot of the Galeras Volcano, the city has journeyed from a pre-Columbian settlement to a major administrative and cultural centre of southern Colombia.

• 1539 — Official founding of the city by Spanish conquistador Lorenzo de Aldana under the name San Juan de Pasto. This event laid the foundation for the region's future development as a vital point on the route between colonial centres.
• 1811–1822 — The period of the Wars of Independence, during which Pasto remained a stronghold of Royalists loyal to the Spanish Crown. The city became the scene of fierce battles, earning it the nickname "The Royal Bastion".
• 7 April 1822 — The Battle of Bomboná, one of the key battles of the war for independence, in which the forces of Simón Bolívar faced stubborn resistance from the Royalists of Pasto.
• 24 December 1822 — A tragic event known as "Black Christmas" (Navidad Negra), when troops commanded by Antonio José de Sucre entered the city after its surrender, leading to significant casualties among the population.
• 1859 — Pasto becomes the capital of the Sovereign State of Cauca, strengthening its administrative status in the region.
• 6 August 1904 — Creation of the Department of Nariño, with the city of Pasto designated as its capital. This event definitively cemented its role as the main political and administrative centre in southern Colombia.
• 1944 — The city suffered from a severe earthquake, which led to destruction and the subsequent rebuilding of part of the urban infrastructure.
• 1993 — A major eruption of the Galeras Volcano, located in the immediate vicinity of the city, occurred. This event compelled authorities to develop early warning systems and evacuation plans to protect the population.
• 2002 — The football club "Deportivo Pasto" reached the top division of Colombian football for the first time, marking a significant event in the city's sporting life.
• 2009 — The Blacks and Whites' Carnival (Carnaval de Negros y Blancos) was included in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, bringing it worldwide renown.

Stages of Development: From Colonial Centre to Cultural Capital

The development of Pasto is a story of transformations that have defined its modern appearance. The city has evolved from an isolated Royalist bastion into an important economic and cultural hub in southern Colombia. Key milestones reflect its ability to adapt while preserving its uniqueness.

• Becoming a Departmental Capital (1904). Designating Pasto as the capital of the newly formed Department of Nariño was a turning point. It strengthened its administrative significance, attracted investment in urban infrastructure, and laid the groundwork for future growth.
• Construction of the Pan-American Highway. The routing of this vital transport artery through the region in the mid-20th century brought Pasto out of relative isolation. The highway significantly simplified trade with other parts of Colombia and neighbouring Ecuador, giving a powerful boost to economic development.
• Development of the University of Nariño. The transformation of the university into one of the leading educational centres in the south of the country contributed to Pasto's cultural and intellectual growth. The institution became a magnet for youth and qualified specialists, shaping the region's intellectual elite.
• Strengthening the Artisanal Economy. Historically, the city was famous for unique crafts, particularly the "Barniz de Pasto" technique. In the 20th century, these traditions were not only preserved but became a vital part of the local economy, oriented towards tourism and export.
• Recognition of the Blacks and Whites' Carnival (2009). The inclusion of the famous carnival in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage was a triumph for the city's cultural identity. This event attracted global attention, turning tourism into one of the key sectors of Pasto's economy.
• Life at the Foot of the Volcano. Proximity to the active Galeras Volcano has shaped a unique aspect of urban planning and public life. The need for constant monitoring and readiness for emergencies has led to the development of advanced safety systems and strengthened the cohesion of the urban community.

Architectural Mosaic and Urban Planning

The architectural appearance of the city of Pasto has been shaped over centuries, reflecting its role as a religious and administrative centre in the south of the country. The urban structure of the historic centre has preserved the classic Spanish "damero" (chessboard) layout, where streets intersect at right angles, forming blocks around the main square.

The development of the city's architecture can be divided into several key stages, each leaving its mark on the appearance of streets and buildings.

Colonial Era: Religious Architecture

The period from the 16th to the 18th century is characterised by the dominance of religious architecture. Pasto is often called the "Theological City" (Ciudad Teológica) due to the incredible concentration of temples. During this period, the colonial style prevailed, distinguished by massive whitewashed walls, tiled roofs, and rich interior decoration.

• Style: Colonial with elements of Baroque and Mudejar (particularly in interiors and wood carving).
• Iconic Buildings:
  • Temple of San Juan Bautista (Templo de San Juan Bautista): Considered a jewel of colonial architecture and the oldest temple in the city. Its architecture is austere on the outside, but the interior conceals magnificent gilded altars in the Baroque style.
  • Temple of San Andrés (Templo de San Andrés): Another striking example, combining the simplicity of external forms with the richness of internal decor.

Republican Period: Eclecticism and Neoclassicism

In the 19th and first half of the 20th century, after gaining independence, Colombia began a search for new architectural forms. In Pasto, this was expressed in the appearance of civil and cultural buildings inspired by European trends. Architects sought to give the city a more secular and monumental look.

• Style: Neoclassicism, Republican style, Eclecticism.
• Iconic Buildings:
  • Imperial Theatre (Teatro Imperial): Built in the 1920s, this theatre is a magnificent example of Republican architecture with a horseshoe-shaped hall and an elegant façade.
  • The Cathedral (Templo del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús): Although its construction was completed in the 20th century, the building combines various stylistic influences, from Gothic to Romanesque, creating a unique eclectic image.

Modernism and Contemporary Times

From the second half of the 20th century, the city began to actively expand beyond the historical street grid. Buildings made of concrete and glass appeared, meeting the requirements of functionality. Modern architecture in Pasto sits alongside historical developments, creating a dynamic urban landscape.

• Style: Modernism, Functionalism.
• Features: Construction of university campuses (for example, the University of Nariño), administrative centres, and commercial buildings. The reconstruction of Nariño Square (Plaza de Nariño) transformed it into a modern public space while preserving its status as the heart of the city, where the past and present meet.

Notable Figures Associated with Pasto

The city of Pasto, with its rich and at times dramatic history, has been the birthplace or sphere of activity for many iconic figures in Colombian history, science, and art. These individuals have left a deep mark on the culture not only of their region but of the entire country.

• Agustín Agualongo — Military figure, Royalist leader. One of the most striking symbols of Pasto's resistance to independence forces in the early 19th century. As an indigenous inhabitant, he rose to the rank of general in the Spanish army and led a militia that fiercely defended the city against the troops of Simón Bolívar. His name became synonymous with loyalty to the Crown and the resilience of the people of Pasto.
• Leopoldo López Álvarez — Writer, historian, and politician. A prominent intellectual of the first half of the 20th century, who dedicated his works to studying the history of the Nariño region. His works, such as "Anales del sur de Colombia", are fundamental for understanding the past of southern Colombia. He also held important political posts, contributing to the development of the region.
• Ignacio Rodríguez Guerrero — Humanist, writer, and historian. One of the most respected humanities scholars produced by Pasto. He was the rector of the University of Nariño and the author of numerous works on literature, history, and linguistics. His research on the legacy of classical antiquity in Colombia earned him widespread recognition.
• Luis Felipe de la Rosa — Poet. An outstanding representative of Romanticism in Colombian poetry. His work, permeated with melancholy and reflections on destiny, love, and exile, left a notable mark on the literature of the country's south. De la Rosa is considered one of the most significant poets to emerge from the Nariño region.
• Maruja Hinestrosa — Composer and pianist. A talented artist whose music celebrated the culture and landscapes of Nariño. She is the author of the anthem of the Department of Nariño, and her compositions have become an integral part of the region's musical folklore.
• Antonio Navarro Wolff — Engineer and politician. One of the key figures in modern Colombian political history. A native of Pasto, he was one of the commanders of the M-19 guerrilla movement, and after its demobilisation, became an active participant in political life: he served as Minister of Health, Mayor of Pasto, Governor of the Department of Nariño, and Senator.