Lorica

Migrants from Syria, Lebanon and Palestine arrived on this coast from the 1880s, and a substantial number settled in Lorica and went into trade - the buildings they put up along the Sinu river and around the market carry a recognisably Levantine influence in the arches, ironwork and proportions, mixed with Republican and Caribbean elements, which gives the waterfront an appearance unlike other Colombian river towns. The covered market building of 1929 on the riverbank is the centrepiece and still functions as a market. The Sinu was the town's road for most of its history. Lorica also holds a hammock and craft tradition, and the surrounding wetlands - the Cienaga Grande del Bajo Sinu - hold substantial birdlife.

What you'll find

• A Levantine-influenced waterfront - built by Syrian and Lebanese merchants.
• The 1929 covered market - on the riverbank, still working.
• The Sinu river - the town's road for most of its history.
• Wetlands nearby - the Cienaga Grande del Bajo Sinu.

When to go

December to April; market mornings are the time. Half a day.

Good to know

Buildings are in mixed condition and some are deteriorating. Heat and humidity are heavy. There is limited tourist infrastructure. The market is a working one, crowded and busy.

Nearby

San Bernardo del Viento is west at the coast; Monteria is south.

Key facts