We invite you to discover Comuna 13 in Medellín, which is one of the best examples of urban transformation in Latin America. Once known as one of the most dangerous and violent communities, today it has become a symbol of progress and resilience. In this blog, we invite you to discover the fascinating history of this place and everything it has to offer, from urban art to gastronomy and culture.
Comuna 13 has an incredible metamorphosis. Through infrastructure projects, community initiatives, and a strong sense of belonging, residents have worked together to change the image of their community. This change has not only improved the quality of life for its inhabitants but has also attracted visitors from all over the world.
Start your journey by taking the metro to understand its importance in connecting Medellín. Then, take the cable car up to Comuna 13 to enjoy panoramic views of the city. This is the best way to fully experience the tour.
Upon arrival, the “Graffiti Tour” is the highlight of the entire journey. To get there, you will take an integrated bus to the famous graffiti neighborhood. Here, you can take a walking tour filled with art, music, and typical food. Numerous local guides can explain the meaning behind each piece of art and how these have transformed the community.
Now the Escalators are one of the first of their kind outdoors in the world, making it easier to access the higher areas of the neighborhood. Along the way, you can enjoy traditional snacks at an award-winning restaurant. You will also find Casa Kolacho, a hip hop cultural center dedicated to Héctor "Kolacho" Pacheco, a famous rapper in the community. Casa Kolacho has become the heart of music and urban dance in Medellín, where numerous street artists show their talent, from singers and painters to dancers of Colombian music and modern genres like reggaetón and trap.
In the Las Independencias neighborhood, you will find the Urban Art Gallery, where they use neon techniques to create works that light up in the dark. It's a must-see for art lovers. For the best view of Comuna 13, climb up Carrera 109 to the viewpoint. Here, you can admire the entire area and occasionally enjoy performances by local artists and dancers.
Here are some delights to try on this urban tour such as “Mi Palenque,” the best-rated restaurant in Comuna 13, offering traditional cuisine from Colombia's Pacific coast. Its specialty is fish, and the star dish is Sazón del Pacífico. But if we talk about desserts, you can't leave without trying the “Paleta de Maracumango,” a typical Colombian popsicle, made with green mango and passion fruit, perfect for refreshing yourself while touring the comuna. And obviously, coming to Medellín without trying the famous Bandeja Paisa, one of Colombia's most distinctive dishes, is unthinkable. This typical Antioquian dish includes rice, beans, meat, plantain, chorizo, and more, served on a large platter. In short, it's impossible to visit Comuna 13 and not try some of these great dishes.
Comuna 13 is just one of the many things that Medellín has to offer. The city invites coexistence and progress. Living in Medellín means being in a place where innovation and tradition meet, creating a unique, modern urban environment.
If you're considering moving to Medellín, RE/MAX Real Estate Experts Medellín is here to help you find the perfect house or apartment. With our local market knowledge and commitment to the community, we ensure a smooth and successful buying experience. Discover why Medellín is the ideal place to live and enjoy a life full of opportunities and unique experiences.
See you in the next article, where we will continue exploring everything Medellín has to offer. Don't miss it!