Popayán is a small city, capital of the Colombian department of Cauca. It is located in southwestern Colombia between the western and central mountain ranges.This town is well-known because of its beautiful colonial architecture and its contributions to Colombian cultural and political life. It is also known as the “white city” due to the color of most colonial houses and places in the center of the city,Unfortunately, and earthquake in 1983 destroyed many buildings, though a signifcant number have survived. Nearby is Puracé National Park, a geothermal wonderland of hot springs, waterfalls, and a (currently) inactive volcano from which the park derives its name. The nearest large city is Cali, in the neighboring Department of Valle del Cauca, to the north A tour from Popayan that one should consider is to visit the picturesque mountain town of Silvia, some 60km northeast of Popayan. This small town is best known for it’s Tuesday market, which is also full of Otavalo and Guambiano Indians who come from their nearby villages (some as far away as Ecuador) on market days. The colourful indigenous market is best early in the morning. Always ask before taking photos here. There’s various hotels in Silvia.Parque Caldas ranks as one of my favourite squares in the whole country and it’s a fantastic spot to relax in for a while and watch the world go by. The cathedral to the south of the square is worth peaking inside.Popayan’s largest church, la Iglesia de San Francisco, is situated two blocks west of Parque Caldas next to the Monasterio Hotel. It’s a beautfiul church with a small plaza in front of it.Iglesia La Ermita is the city’s oldest church a few blocks east from the south east corner of calle 5. From the slight elevation of the church is a nice view back along calle 5 with the trees of Parque Caldas poking over the slated roofs (see photo, left).To the north east of Parque Caldas lies Morro de Belalcazar, a hill with a great view overlooking the city. At certains times of the year trees covered in pink blossom can be seen peeking out from between the white buildings; a beautiful sight! At the base of the hill is a small mock colonial town (similar to ‘Pueblito Paisa’ in Medellin). Within it are small shops selling snacks and artwork.