Sofia Vergara handed keys to Colombian city

Sofia Vergara was honored in her native Colombia on Wednesday (11May16) when she was presented with the keys to the tropical city of Cartagena.

The Modern Family star, whose hometown of Barranquilla is just two hours north of Cartagena, was handed the keys during a ceremony at the city's Santa Clara Hotel.

Mayor Manuel Vicente Duque was on hand to present Sofia with the honor, and following the event, he gushed over the actress and the pride the country has for its native daughter.

"Sofia’s humble personality says it all," Mayor Duque told the press. "She was happy and delighted to be receiving the keys to the city surrounded by the Cartagena ambience... Sofia more than deserves these keys. She is a Barranquillera that has put Colombia's name up high."

The 43-year-old also posted a photo of the Mayor handing her the keys on Instagram, adding the caption: "Thank you, Cartagena. I don't want to go."

Sofia jetted off to her native Colombia last week to attend the wedding of a family member. She posted a series of party pictures on Instagram. She also mixed business with pleasure by filming a commercial for beer brand Cerveza Aguila.

She was joined by her son Manolo and other relatives, but noticeably missing was her husband Joe Manganiello, who is recovering from emergency surgery.

Just before heading to Colombia Sofia told ETOnline.com her man is "doing great" and added, “He's OK... He had a little problem, but now he's good."

Joe reportedly had to pull out of a TV drama after falling seriously ill with appendicitis.