Florencia is a municipality and the capital city of the Caquetá Department in Colombia, situated in the Amazon region. It is notable for being the most populous city in this area, with a population of approximately 177,946 as of 2023. See more here.
The city is located along the Orteguaza River, which is a tributary of the Caquetá River, and it sits at the foot of the Cordillera Oriental mountain range.
Florencia was founded on December 25, 1902, by Capuchin Friar Doroteo De Pupiales. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Andaquí, Witoto, and Coreguaje. The city’s name honors Paolo Ricci, an Italian businessman involved in the rubber trade, reflecting the area’s historical significance in rubber production during the early 20th century.
The municipality of Florencia is bordered by several other municipalities and the Huila Department. It features a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by significant rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of about 3,840 millimeters (150 inches). The average temperature in Florencia is around 26.1 °C (79.0 °F), making it a warm and humid location.
Florencia is home to several cultural and historical sites, including the El Encanto Petroglyphs, which feature ancient engravings along the Hacha River, and the Curiplaya Building, a colonial-era structure that now serves as a cultural center. These sites reflect the rich history and cultural diversity of the region.
Overall, Florencia serves as a vital hub for the surrounding Amazonian communities, combining a rich historical background with a vibrant contemporary culture.
