Montería is a municipality and city in northern Colombia and capital of the province of Córdoba. Founded in 1777, the city is located on the banks of the Sinou River, 50 km from the Caribbean Sea. With a population of approximately 490,000 people, Montería is considered one of the 10 most important cities in Colombia. The city is known for its unique cultural heritage, with a mix of Spanish descendants, Zenú Indians, crypto-Jews and Middle Eastern immigrants. . Montería is home to Colombia's national symbol, the vueltiao hat, and the birthplace of folkloric polo music