Soledad

Soledad, city, Atlántico departamento, northwestern Colombia. It lies 18 miles (30 km) upstream from the mouth of the Magdalena River. It was founded in 1640, and much of its development during the colonial era was due to its proximity to Barranquilla, 3 miles (5 km) to the north. Soledad became a local commercial and manufacturing centre; in response to the growth of Barranquilla, it has also industrialized. The city is accessible by highway and contains the international jet airport that serves Barranquilla. Pop. (2007 est.) 502,736.