Gallery: Chamber of mirrors and salt waterfalls at Nemocon salt mine

In Colombia, the history of salt is a history of power.

The control of salt production was a major source of political power for indigenous administrations to the Spanish conquistadors, and finally to the new state after achieving independence from Spain in 1819.

Today, the salt mines are Colombia’s most popular tourist attractions.

This photo gallery shows images from the 80-meter deep Nemocon salt mine, the second largest salt mine in the country.

While its neighboring mine in Zipaquirá may be more famous due to its striking religious effigies, the five-century-old Nemocon mine is a fascinating look at the working conditions and daily lives of salt miners -- such as their daily chapel attendance.

More sights include a 1,600-kilogram salt crystal carved in the shape of a heart, a wishing pool and a waterfall of salt. 

The Salt Museum, located in the town’s oldest building just outside the mine, showcases the history of salt processing.

Visitors should also check out the Salt Furnace, located some 500 meters from the town main square. According to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, it is the only oven that remains from over a hundred that were used for artisan salt processing. 

Tours of Bogota runs tours daily. Prices start at US$89 for a group tour, US$120 for a solo tour. 

More on CNN: Tikal: Guatemala's amazing, ancient wonder