Meghan Markle and Prince Harry explore Afro-Colombian culture in San Basilio de Palenque, Colombia.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry recently visited the historic village of San Basilio de Palenque in Colombia, as part of their ongoing tour of the country.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s visit to the village, known for its rich Afro-Colombian culture and history, was marked by an outpouring of warmth and celebration.
San Basilio de Palenque, located outside the city of Cartagena, holds a unique place in history as the first free African town in the Americas. It was established in 1619 by runaway slaves, led by the town’s founder, Benkos Bioho.
The village has since become a symbol of freedom, resilience, and cultural preservation for Afro-Colombians.
The royal couple was warmly welcomed by the community upon their arrival. Students greeted them with a heartfelt rendition of the Colombian national anthem, followed by speeches and cultural performances from the community’s leaders.
The atmosphere was lively and colorful, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the Palenquero people.
One of the highlights of the visit was the couple’s exploration of the village’s street market, where they were able to interact with local vendors and experience the rich diversity of Afro-Colombian culture.
The market is known for its array of traditional crafts, foods, and music, all of which are integral to the community’s cultural identity.
During the visit, Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Márquez, delivered a speech expressing her gratitude to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for accepting her invitation to the country.
Márquez emphasized the importance of the visit, noting that it provided an opportunity for the couple to experience the essence of Afro-Colombian culture and heritage.
“I wanted them to come here and discover the essence of who we are — our spirituality, our music, our culture, and our ancestral heritage that is still very much alive today,” Vice President Márquez said.
“In the midst of adversity, this is what has helped us continue to be resilient. Palenque is in the heart of every Afro-Colombian.”
Meghan Markle, 43, and Prince Harry, 39, also took the opportunity to address the community, greeting them in both Spanish and the town’s indigenous language, Palenquero.
Meghan expressed her deep honor at being able to visit San Basilio de Palenque, acknowledging the community’s incredible history and resilience.
“I am so honored to be here,” Meghan said. “This community’s history is truly incredible, and it is a privilege to be able to witness the strength and spirit that has carried you through generations.”
Prince Harry echoed his wife’s sentiments, describing the visit as an “incredibly moving experience.”
The couple’s interactions with the local community were described as warm and genuine, with many residents appreciating their interest in and respect for Afro-Colombian culture.
Manuel Perez Salinas, a tour guide who accompanied the Duke and Duchess during their visit, shared that he discussed the community’s cultural identity with the couple and showed them a statue of Benkos Bioho, the town’s founder.
He praised the couple for their willingness to “break protocol” by touring the town and engaging directly with its residents.
Another guide, Juan Manuel Márquez Padilla, mentioned that when he spoke to the couple about the importance of ending racial discrimination, Prince Harry responded with, “We’re working on that.”
Márquez Padilla appreciated the couple’s commitment to human rights, stating, “I liked them because they’re working for human rights.”
However, some residents expressed hope that the couple would address the historical role of the British crown in the colonial slave trade during their visit.
Elida Canarte Diaz, a local hairdresser, voiced her thoughts on the matter, suggesting that Prince Harry could show repentance for the past actions of his ancestors.
“His ancestors made our ancestors go through terrible times, and he can make good faith and repent to show that they don’t agree with what happened before,” Diaz said.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s visit to San Basilio de Palenque underscored their commitment to uplifting communities and celebrating cultural heritage.
The couple’s official website later highlighted the significance of the visit, stating that it “reaffirmed the power of community spirit and connection.”
The visit not only honored the rich history of San Basilio de Palenque but also reinforced the importance of solidarity and cultural understanding.
