Top photos of Harry and Meghan's visit to Colombia
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, arrived in Bogotá on Thursday, August 15 to begin their first official visit to Latin America. The couple received an enthusiastic welcome as they prepared for a series of activities focused on education and reconciliation in Colombia.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited La Giralda school in Bogotá, where they took part in cultural activities organised by the students, including planting trees and a traditional cumbia dance. The visit highlighted the importance of education and historical memory in a country scarred by decades of armed conflict.
At the La Giralda school museum, Meghan and Harry saw artwork commemorating massacres in Colombia, such as the Aro and Bojayá massacres. These works are a tribute to restoration and non-repetition of violence in the country, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited the Directorate of Veterans and Inclusive Rehabilitation in Bogota, where they met Colombian military personnel wounded in combat. Harry, founder of the Invictus Games, joined in the training of the sitting volleyball players who are going to be participating in the next edition of the event.
Meghan and Harry participated in a forum on digital security and the impact of online harassment, priority issues for their Archewell Foundation. Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez joined the cause, sharing her personal experience with racism on social media.
In Cartagena, Meghan and Harry took part in a bongos class at the Escuela Taller Tambores de Cabildo de La Boquilla, according to Vanitatis. The couple enjoyed Caribbean music while learning about the Afro-Colombian cultural roots that enrich the country's identity.
Harry and Meghan visited San Basilio de Palenque, the first free town in the Americas. There, they learned about the history of the Afro-Colombian community and participated in a traditional ritual symbolising prosperity. Meghan, with her African ancestry, was particularly emotional during the visit.
The visit to San Basilio de Palenque included a performance of Rap Folklorico Palanquero, a musical style that mixes rap with traditional rhythms. Harry and Meghan browsed the local craft stalls, showing a deep interest in Colombian culture and traditions.
Before leaving San Basilio de Palenque, Meghan thanked the community for sharing their history and culture, highlighting the importance of this place in Colombia's history. Harry, for his part, highlighted the strength of the community and its unity in difficult times.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's visit to Colombia culminated with a message of unity and hope. Their tour of the country not only strengthened ties with Colombia, but also underlined the importance of education, inclusion and respect for local cultures.
Follow Showbizz Daily to stay informed and enjoy more content!