This could be the capital of Quindío instead of Armenia, according to AI

Located in the Andean region, Quindío is the second smallest department in Colombia, with a land area of ​​approximately 1,845 km² and geographical conditions that make it an ideal area for agriculture, especially coffee, the flagship product of its economy and culture. But if you had to reinvent its capital, what would it be? Artificial intelligence answers the question.

As part of the reflections to evaluate a viable alternative to assume the role of departmental capital instead of Armenia, the linchpin of the Coffee Cultural Landscape, the ChatGPT may be the best tool due to its ability to analyze large volumes of geographic, demographic, economic, environmental, and infrastructure data objectively, rapidly, and multidimensionally. With its strategic location, growing urban infrastructure, and proximity to Armenia, this initiative opens the debate on the possibility of decentralizing administrative functions and promoting a more balanced model of regional governance.

From a perspective based on analysis of geographic, economic and social data, I could suggest Calarcá as an alternative to Armenia for the capital of the department of Quindío , for the following objective reasons:

1) Strategic location: Calarcá is located very close to Armenia (less than 10 km), which would facilitate an administrative transition without seriously altering the regional infrastructure or existing transportation systems.

2) Population size and urban capacity: It is the second most populated municipality in the department, with a more developed urban structure compared to other municipalities, which makes it more suitable for large-scale administrative functions.

(READ MORE: Full of potassium: the fruit that lowers blood pressure and everyone has at home )

3) Connectivity: Calarcá is a key hub of the coffee-growing region, located near the La Línea tunnel, with good connections to Tolima and the center of the country, giving it logistical advantages over other municipalities. 4) Educational infrastructure and services: It has educational and healthcare institutions, and some urban facilities that could be expanded to support the capital's functions.

5) Decongestion in Armenia: From a territorial planning perspective, moving part of the administrative functions to Calarcá could contribute to decentralizing Armenia, which faces problems of congestion, uncontrolled growth, and overloaded services.

(READ MORE: How many years does 1,300 weeks of pension contributions represent?) What other options does AI suggest?

Other possible options, although less likely from the logical analysis of AI, would be:

- Filandia: For its tourist, cultural and environmental value, although its size and urban capacity are more limited.

- Montenegro: Due to its location and tourism development, although it faces social and security challenges.

- La Tebaida: Due to its proximity to El Edén International Airport, but it still lacks sufficient infrastructure.

What can you do in Calarcá?

According to TripAdvisor these are the best places to visit: 1. Quindío Botanical Garden and Butterfly Garden

​

It stands out for its 15 hectares of ecological trails, collections of medicinal plants, heliconias, and a butterfly house with more than 1,500 specimens. It also includes a suspension bridge, a seven-story observation deck, and species conservation activities.

2. Coffee experiences

Recuca (Coffee Culture Tour) allows you to participate in the coffee harvesting and processing process, wearing traditional costumes. It's also recommended to visit coffee farms for tastings and to learn about the production process.

3. Adventure at El Castillo Hill

Ideal for paragliding, with tandem flights offering views of Quindío, Risaralda, and Valle del Cauca. Includes options for beginners with certified instructors.

4. Extreme sports and ecotourism

Options include rock climbing, rappelling, and caving (cave exploration). The Peñas Blancas Ecopark is a highlight for hiking and connecting with nature.