Coffee atlas: Antioquia in Colombia

The region where coffee was first introduced to Colombia and where the FNC originated. It has the largest growing area by hectare of all Colombian growing regions

Altitude: 1300–2200 m above sea level

Harvest: September–December (main) and April–May (fly)

Varietals: Typica, Castillo, Caturra

The region boasts ideal coffee growing conditions, made possible by the central and western mountain ranges (cordilleras) that cross the department. Like many areas of Colombia, the true potential of Antioquia took time to be fully realised. For a long time the region was marred by unrest and violence, hindering access to coffee farmers. With recent efforts to change the image and focus of the region and its capital, Medellín, Antioquia is now starting to realise the potential it possesses.