Colombia is located in northern South America, bordered by Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru and Panama. It has a diverse landscape that includes the Andes Mountains, savannas, rainforests and both Caribbean and Pacific coastlines. The population of around 46 million speaks mainly Spanish and is predominantly Roman Catholic. After gaining independence from Spain in 1819, Colombia experienced internal civil wars and conflicts, including losing Panama to the United States in 1903. The country has faced political instability and violence between parties, but remains culturally united through religion, music and sports like football.

1. ColombiaKaree Ann Klein

2. GeographyLocated in northern South AmericaConnects to Central AmericaBogotá is the capitalHighest city of its size in the world (8,500 ft)Bordered by:Venezuela

3. Brazil

4. Ecuador

5. Peru

6. Panama

7. Caribbean Sea

8. Pacific OceanGeography cont.Part of the Ring of FireSubjected to earthquakes and volcanic eruptionsIncludes diverse regions: Andes mountain rangeSavanna of LlanosOrinoco River basinAmazon rainforestColombia’s territory includes several Caribbean and Pacific Islands

9. PeoplePopulation is approx. 46 million (2008)Third most populous country in Latin AmericaMost people live in the Andean highlands and along the Caribbean coastMain language is SpanishFourth largest number of Spanish speakers in the worldReligionPredominantly Christianity (95%), 81-90% are Roman Catholic Less than 1% practice indigenous religions, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and BuddhismMany reported that they do not practice their faith actively

10. People cont.Estimated ethnic break down:58% MestizoMixed European and Amerindian26% WhiteSpanish, Italian, Portuguese, German14% Afro ColombianMixed African and European1% AmerindianIndigenous