Providencia photos

About Providencia

View photos of Providencia in the Caribbean Sea within the territory of Colombia.

Providencia is one of the islands that form the San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina archipelago, located in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Nicaragua. Providencia is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine fauna, attracting many visitors who come to enjoy activities like diving and snorkeling. Additionally, the island is home to several small communities where the traditional Caribbean culture is still alive and well and where English is the preferred language over Spanish.

Providencia, Santa Catalina and San Andrés further to the north were a prime target for pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries due to their strategic location along the trade routes between Europe and the Americas.

Captain Henry Morgan used Providencia as a base of operations for his raids on Spanish ships and settlements. He was known for his cunning tactics and brutal attacks, which earned him a fearsome reputation. Another well-known pirate who frequented these waters was Edward Teach, also known as Blackbeard.