Jerico

About

Founded in 1850, Jerico is best known as the birthplace of Madre Laura, Colombia’s first patron saint. So it should be no surprise that religion plays a major role in the city, with a giant Jesus statue watching over the town, and the 16 churches chiming every 15 minutes. From the main square and elegant cathedral, you can dive into a maze of cobbled streets, like the famed Street of 100 Steps, or the vibrant artist community in Bomarzo, to see the colorful colonial architecture that earned it a spot as one of Colombia’s 17 Heritage Towns. Regardless of where your feet take you, keep your stomach ready - Jerico is said to have the best street-food in the country, be it cookies and wine from the convent, to honey and guava Luisas, which are only baked here. If you’re looking for a functional souvenir, the many-pocketed Carriel bag, a national symbol, is only made here.