A metal disc flying through the air, the sudden explosion of a powder fuse, laughter erupting around a cold beer: this is the atmosphere of a game of tejo, Colombia‘s most popular game. Officially recognized as a national sport and listed as intangible cultural heritage, it has its roots in the traditions of the Muisca people, long before the arrival of the Spanish.
From the Muiscas to Turmequé
Originally called turmequé, this game was played by the Muiscas, a pre-Columbian civilization that flourished for over 1,500 years on the Colombian Altiplano in the present-day departments of Boyacá and Cundinamarca. They would throw a gold disc, the zepguagoscua, which symbolized the sun and paid homage to Sué, the central deity of their cosmogony.
The throwing was part of sacred rituals, but was also used in social gatherings, conflict resolution, and even ceremonies related to love. With the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, gold was replaced by stone, then metal. Despite these changes, the game survived as a popular practice, particularly in the department of Boyacá, before spreading throughout the Andean regions of the country.
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How is tejo played?
The principle is simple: throw an iron disc, of varying size and weight, towards a clay court. In the center, a metal ring (bocín) holds small packets of gunpowder (mechas). The goal is to hit the ring or trigger an explosion.
The fields vary between 8 meters (mini-tejo, for beginners) and 19.5 meters (official version). The game is played in teams of three or four people, with participants taking turns throwing from one side, then retrieving the discs to start again in the other direction.
The score is based on four main actions:
- mano (1 point, closest disc),
- mecha (3 points, explosion),
- bocín (6 points, disc in the ring),
- moñona (9 points, disc in the ring with explosion).
The game ends at 21 points for mini-tejo, or 27 in the traditional version.
From the Andes to international competitions
In 2023, the first World Tejo Meeting was organized by the city council and the Bogotá Tourism Institute. More than 200 participants and 16 diplomatic delegations took part, from Japan to Canada to India, which won the final against Argentina.
For its part, the International Tejo Association is working to promote the sport outside Colombia. It is developing referee training programs, harmonizing rules, and organizing competitions such as the Tejo World Tour, with the aim of making it a recognized sport beyond Colombia’s borders.
Tejo remains a moment of conviviality and sharing, where each throw brings together centuries of history and tradition. In the villages of Boyacá, in the taverns of Bogotá, and at regional festivals, it embodies both indigenous heritage and popular leisure.
For travelers, trying tejo is a way to experience Colombia differently: to understand its roots, discover its festive culture, and participate in a unique experience that unites generations and cultures around the same clay court.
Photos: Radio Nacional de Colombia | El Tiempo
