Guarzo

Guarzo lies in the uplands of eastern Antioquia, in country formerly inhabited by Tahamí and Quirama peoples. A settlement known as El Guarzo grew within the jurisdiction of Rionegro, in the valley watered by the Guarzo stream and the Pantanillo River. From 1786 it attracted settlers of varied origins, including free people of African descent. Recognised as a rural district in 1790, it gained a parish in 1814 under the name El Retiro.