Santa Cruz de Mompox, a town in North-Western Colombia on
the banks of the Magdalena river, is a finely preserved
colonial gem founded by the Spanish in 1540. A world heritage site since 1995, Santa
Cruz rewards visitors with beautiful architecture set
in an awe-inspiring natural environment.
Yet, as noted by Colombia Reports this week, the town's cultural
legacy in under threat by the Colombian government's plans to bring modernity
to Mompos, as it known locally, by building a new bridge across the Magdalena
River to Magangue and the country's larger urban centres beyond. At 12km long
and costing upwards of USD75 million, the "Bridge
of Reconciliation" President
Juan Manuel Santos is characterizing is dividing Momposinos. While many welcome
the economic benefits that will come with improved transportation links, others
worry about the loss of Mompos' unique identity and heritage.
Hopefully a
middle way can be found that balances local residents' aspirations with a
strong commitment to the preservation of the area's rich cultural and nature heritage.
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