Santiago de Cali, commonly known as Cali, is the capital of the Valle del Cauca department and the most populous city in southwest Colombia. Founded on July 25, 1536, by the Spanish explorer Sebastián de Belalcázar, it serves as a primary urban and economic center for the southern region of the country.
The city covers an area of 560.3 km² (216.3 sq mi), with 120.9 km² (46.7 sq mi) designated as urban area, making it the second-largest city in Colombia by area and the third most populous. As of 2023, Cali has an estimated population of 2,280,522 residents and is recognized for having one of the fastest-growing economies in Colombia.