Morro de Tulcán
A pre-Hispanic earthen mound-pyramid at the northeast corner of the old town, topped with an equestrian statue of the city's founder, Sebastián de Belalcázar. It offers views over the White City.
Morro de Tulcán is an artificial earthen mound built roughly between 500 and 1600 CE, considered one of the largest pyramid-like pre-Columbian sites in Colombia. The summit holds a bronze equestrian statue of Sebastián de Belalcázar, the Spanish conquistador who founded Popayán. The statue was toppled by Indigenous protesters in 2020, which sparked controversy. Climbing the stone steps takes about 10 minutes. From the top you get a 360-degree view of the old town's white roofs and the surrounding mountains, and the sunset is especially beautiful. Entry is free, but do not linger after dark.
Opening hours
Open during the day; leave before sunset recommended
Nearby sights
- Pueblito Patojo
- Museo de Historia Natural
- Casa Museo Mosquera
- Iglesia La Ermita
- Capilla de Belén
- Puente del Humilladero
- Museo Arquidiocesano de Arte Religioso
- Casa Museo Guillermo Valencia