Salt of the Earth

Our morning adventure needed a bit of a jump start, but after a bit of re-arranging we were on our way to the salt mines of Zipaquirá. In the center of the mines they have carved out a cathedral made from the rock and salt. As we walked deeper into the mines, you could smell the sulfur in the air and hear the explosions of excavations on the other side of the mountain. Allen had been fairly convinced that the rumbling was his tummy, but in fact it was carefully timed dynamite releasing the next load of salt from the mountain´s wall. Tons of salt rock are still excavated daily and the active mine can produce enough salt to keep the production levels constant until 2030. It is believed that there are enough unexplored chambers to last for another 500 years.

Along the pathway to the center of the Salt Cathedral there are 14 chapels representing the Passion of Christ and the Catholic stations of the cross. Each chapel was carefully carved to use not only the symbolism of the events represented but also to maximize the symbolism of the salt of the earth. Before entering the narthex, there is a dome that is awe inspiring. Perfectly polished, the dome represents the greatness of God which contrasts sharply with the jagged walls that represent the flaws of our humanity. Tunnels, small chapels, sculptures, and walls covered with salt crystals and pyrite make the Salt Cathedral the first wonder of Colombia.

According to Pepe, Marce´s nephew, the second wonder of Colombia might just be the hamburgers at El Corral. We stopped by there for a late lunch after all of that salt left us parched and the exploring left us famished. I highly recommend the chocolate milk shake and not forgetting your cell phone on the table (Ivan). ;o)

We´re home for a night of card games and rest before adventuring out tomorrow to Maloka.

Love from the salty explorers in Bogota,

Rickelle, Jimmy, Allen, & Marce

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