Barranquilla

Barranquilla is a city and municipality on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It is the capital of Atlántico Department and a major urban, economic, and cultural center of the northern coast. Located near the delta of the Magdalena River, the city functions as a major port and gateway for commerce and industry in the Caribbean region. As of the latest estimates, the city proper has more than 1 million residents, and the metropolitan area exceeds 2 million.

Barranquilla was founded in 1629 by Spanish settlers. It developed as a port and commercial hub on the Caribbean coast, with growth accelerating in the 19th and early 20th centuries due to railroad connections and export trade. The city remains an important logistics and industrial center, with activities in manufacturing, services, and trade.

The economy centers on the port facilities, logistics networks, and industrial clusters. The Port of Barranquilla is one of the region’s primary maritime gateways. The city is served by Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ) and is connected by road and rail to other Colombian cities.

Barranquilla is best known internationally for its Carnival, recognized by UNESCO as Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The city has a rich cultural scene, with notable figures such as Shakira and Sofía Vergara among its native-born residents. Local sports include football, with Junior F.C. playing at the Metropolitano stadium.

Climate is tropical, hot and humid year-round, with a wet season and a drier period.