The transformation of Medellin
In the 1990s, the city of Medellin was known for the violence and insecurity associated with the Medellin cartel led by Pablo Escobar. The municipalities became the centre of violence linked to drug trafficking and the presence of illegal armed groups. The criminal gangs and guerrilla groups operating in the area led to a period of violence that severely affected the local community.
However, the town has undergone a transformation that testifies to the civic participation and commitment of the local population, and it has now become a fine tourist destination. Since 2002, local mayors have taken the initiative to invest in education and transport. In 2013, Medellin was named “Most Innovative City ’ by the Wall Street Journal. One of the city’s most representative sites is Comuna 13, one of the 16 communes that make up the city. It was known as one of the most dangerous areas affected by the conflict. Today, it is a clear example of resilience and overcoming. First and foremost, Comuna 13 has become a destination for local and international artists, with graffiti and murals adorning the streets and telling the story of the community. A must-see in Medellin is a visit to this artistic centre. The city has also invested heavily in infrastructure projects to improve accessibility and mobility. The city has even installed escalators and public lifts, which have primarily benefited the community. In terms of culture and education, cultural and educational projects have been promoted to empower young people through the creation of cultural spaces and community projects. For all this and more, La Comuna 13 has attracted the attention of thousands of tourists in recent years, boosting the local economy as it is the residents themselves who are responsible for guided tours, concerts and even hip-hop competitions. 
Comuna 13 in Medellin
Here are our tips for visiting Comuna 13, one of Medellin’s best experiences:
- Take a guided tour: we recommend taking a guided tour with the locals to better understand the history and culture of the place. What’s more, the guides will be sure to show you the best spots and viewpoints in the city.
- Say goodbye to preconceptions: research the history of the area before you visit to gain a better understanding of the socio-cultural context of La Comuna 13. Today, it’s a completely renovated space that should be visited with respect and admiration.
- Support local vendors: during your visit to La Comuna 13, you’ll have the chance to meet a number of local businesses. We recommend you try the micheladas, mango deer ice cream and cheese arepas. All these products are made by local people.
A landfill exemplifying resilience
Comuna 13 is not the only place to visit in Medellin. There’s the Arvi park, the plaza Botero, el parque de los pies descalzos, etc. The densely populated district of Moravia was once Medellín’s municipal rubbish dump. There was a mountain of rubbish surrounded by a large shanty town, whose inhabitants lived in almost absolute poverty. Thousands of refugees from the armed conflict in Colombia in the 1990s and 2000s moved here in search of new life opportunities. The landfill site has been transformed into a large garden of flowers and beautiful plants tended by the inhabitants. Moravia is now known for its strong community spirit, resilience, ability to reinvent itself and the positive attitude of its people. Numerous community-run projects have transformed Moravia into an epicentre of art, culture and entrepreneurship. Visit this district, an example of resilience and transformation, and talk to the leaders who have lived through Moravia’s transformation. Discover with Magelia this place full of history, art and transformation! Contact us for more information.
