The renaissance of Medellín

Medellin the capital of the Antioquia department is located in northwestern Colombia and lies cradled in the Aburra Valley, bisected by the Medellin River which runs North and South. With its year round warm temperatures it is also known as the “City of Eternal Spring”. It´s population is about 3 Million, which makes it the second largest city of the country. In addition, the city stands out as one of the major cultural centers in Colombia as it hosts national and international recognised events such as the Flower Fair, the International Poetry Festival, and many more. But Medellin was not always like these days! The history of Medellin in the last two decades is a history of outstanding positiv changes:

El Patron Pablo Escobar is probably the most famous person of Medellín. In the 70s and 80s, Escobar established his drug-empire in the capital of the department of Antioquia. During that period Medellín was known as the most important place of cocaine trade worldwide. But Medellín took a step further and has changed entirely. Today the city is a successful and upcoming place in Colombia. Icon of the urban renaissance is the construction of the biggest open air-escalator in the world. Since December 2011 the escalator carries citizens and people from all over the world through the district of Comuna 13. This open air-escalator is something really special. 

Besides in medellin there is the Metrocable a gondola lift system implemented by the City Council of Medellín with the purpose of providing a complementary transportation service to that of Medellíns Metro. It was designed to reach some of the least developed suburban areas of Medellín and it is largely considered to be the first Cable propelled transit system at South America.

Metrocable of Medellín

Another attraction of Medellín is the Flower Festival. Since 1957 people around the world has been visiting the city just to become a part of that traditional event. During the 10 days of celebration the streets, parks, gardens and balconies of Medellín are becoming a colorful place of flowers. Indeed, the highlight of the festival is the procession of the Silleteros. Here men, women and children are carrying individually designed flowers on their shoulders as a expression of their life and personal story. Therefore, this custom was declared as a cultural heritage in Colombia.

Flower Festival of Medellín

In the centre of Medellín you will find the Sculpture Park which contains more than 20 sculptures donated by Maestro Fernando Botero a son of Antioquia and Colombia’s best-known artist.

Sculpture Park of Medellín

Over the whole year Medellín offers a wide range of amazing attractions. In the center of Medellín you find the wonderful romanesque cathedral. The architecture and the organ concerts are quite impressive. In addition, there are a numerous of museums and theaters, modern shopping centers and plenty of events during the whole year.

Go ahead and discover the city of spring. Medellín is waiting for you.