culture
April 6, 2026
Where does the myth that couples who go up Monserrate separate come from?
During Holy Week, Monserrate becomes one of the most important centers of faith, tourism, and tradition in the country. Thousands of people ascend Bogotá's iconic hill to fulfill promises, give thanks for favors, ask for blessings, or simply have a spiritual experience in one of the capital's most representative places. However, alongside devotion, one of the most popular myths among Bogotanos also reappears: the belief that couples who ascend together might separate if they are not destined to stay united.
TL;DR
- Monserrate is a significant site for faith, tourism, and tradition, especially during Holy Week.
- A popular myth suggests that couples ascending Monserrate together might separate if not destined to be united.
- The myth's roots lie in colonial-era social history, where unmarried couples ascending alone faced social criticism.
- The legend emerged as a form of moral judgment and social pressure from a time of strict relationship supervision.
- Over time, it evolved into a well-known urban legend and a curious aspect of Bogotá's cultural identity.
- The myth is now seen by some as a symbolic test of a relationship's strength and adds to the hill's cultural allure.