GUAQUIRA, the magic of Lake Tota

Colibrí orejivioleta

In the heart of Sogamoso, Boyacá, stands an artistic work that captures the essence and magic of Lake Tota and its surroundings. The mural entitled “Guiquira, the magic of Lake Tota”, commissioned by La Colonial Restaurant, not only beautifies the interior space of the establishment, but also invites viewers to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural wealth of the region.

Context and Meaning

This mural, 9 meters wide by 2.3 meters high, is an ode to the biodiversity and ecological importance of Lake Tota and the sacred moors of the Boyacá territory. The work seeks to open a window to the biodiversity and natural wealth of the province of Sugamuxi, using the vivid and contrasting colors of nature to convey its message.

Lake Tota, known as the largest lake in Colombia and the second highest in South America, is an ecosystem of vital importance. Located at 3,015 meters above sea level, this body of water is not only a crucial water resource, but also a habitat for a wide variety of endemic and endangered species.

Elements of the Mural

The work presents a perspective from the south side of the lake, accompanied by various plants that make up the flora of the Boyacá moors. Among the most notable representations are the violet-eared hummingbird, the swamp wren and the common crested crow, emblematic birds of the region that symbolize the diversity and beauty of the local fauna.

Additional Information

The name “Guiquira” has indigenous roots and is the original name of what is now known as Aquitania. This historical detail adds a layer of depth and meaning to the mural, connecting the present with the ancestral past of the region.

Ecological and Cultural Importance

Lake Tota and its surroundings are considered sacred by the indigenous communities that inhabit the area. The páramos, which cover approximately 24% of the department of Boyacá, are strategic ecosystems that play a crucial role in regulating water and climate. These páramos, such as the Ocetá páramo and the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, are home to unique biodiversity and offer vital ecosystem services for the region.

Client: La Colonial Restaurante / Measurements: 3.2 x 7.5 ft / Location: Sogamoso, Boyacá, Colombia

Conclusion

“Guiquira, the magic of Lake Tota” is not just a mural, but a celebration of the nature and culture of Boyacá. Through this work, La Colonial Restaurante not only beautifies its space, but also educates and raises awareness among its visitors about the importance of preserving these valuable ecosystems. This mural is a visual reminder of the natural wealth that surrounds us and the need to protect it for future generations.