population: 0.26 million

extension: 480 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Popayán and interested in visiting museums, a great place to start is the Museo Guillermo Valencia. This museum features exhibits on the life and work of Guillermo Valencia, a prominent poet and politician from the region. Other museums in the area include the Museo Arquidiocesano de Arte Religioso, which showcases religious art and artifacts, and the Casa-Museo Mosquera, which is dedicated to the history and culture of the Mosquera family.

If you're looking for similar museums in the area, you might also consider checking out the Museo Arqueológico Nacional de Tierradentro, which features exhibits on pre-Columbian cultures, or the Museo del Oro Zenú, which highlights the indigenous Zenú culture and their use of gold in art and everyday life.

Food

Popayán is known for its rich culinary traditions, and there are many delicious dishes that locals would recommend trying. Some of the most popular and typical dishes to eat in Popayán include:

1. Empanadas de Pipián: These are deep-fried empanadas filled with a mixture of ground peanuts, sesame seeds, and vegetables.

2. Champus: A sweet and refreshing drink made from corn, pineapple, lulo, and cinnamon.

3. Arroz Atollado: A hearty rice dish cooked with chicken, pork, potatoes, and spices.

4. Aborrajados: Fried plantains stuffed with cheese and served with a sweet dipping sauce.

5. Tamales: Steamed parcels of seasoned cornmeal with various fillings, such as pork, chicken, or vegetables.

6. Pandebono: A small, round bread made from yuca flour and cheese, often eaten as a snack or breakfast.

7. Changua: A traditional breakfast soup made with milk, scallions, and eggs.

These dishes are just a few examples of the many delicious foods you can enjoy in Popayán. Be sure to also try the regional specialty, lechona, which is a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals enjoy doing in Popayán:

1. Visit the Parque Caldas: This is a popular park in the city center where locals like to hang out, relax, and people-watch. You can bring a picnic, play some games, or just sit on a bench and soak up the atmosphere.

2. Explore the historic center: Popayán has a beautiful colonial architecture and a rich history, so taking a walk around the historic center is a must-do activity. There are many churches, museums, and monuments to discover, as well as some great restaurants and cafes.

3. Taste the local food: Colombian cuisine is delicious and varied, and Popayán has some unique dishes that you should try. Some of the most popular local foods include empanadas de pipián (empanadas filled with mashed pumpkin and peanuts), dulce de leche (a sweet caramel-like sauce made from milk), and champús (a refreshing drink made with corn, pineapple, and lulo).

4. Attend a cultural event: Popayán is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones include the Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions, the Festival de Música Religiosa (Religious Music Festival), and the Feria de Popayán (Popayán Fair), which takes place in December and features music, dance, and food.

I hope these suggestions help you have a memorable time in Popayán!