Commune 13

Commune 13 is the most well-known neighborhood in Medellin and therefore gets its own blog entry.

Notorious for its past and famous for its present, Commune 13 now attracts about 100,000 tourists a month. This was nearly unthinkable until the early 2000s. Paramilitary groups and gangs controlled the area, which has about 160,000 residents. Open violence was commonplace. They would shoot first and then ask what the person lying on the ground wanted. The more than 20 planned military operations by the government resulted in many civilian casualties and further worsened the security situation in Commune 13.

In short: Commune 13 was officially the most dangerous neighborhood in the world!

Today, the area has developed into a vibrant tourist hotspot, focusing on street art, music, and dance. The neighborhood is colorful, young, loud, and full of life. Particularly after 2002 and then in 2011 with the construction of escalators into the steep area, a significant change in Commune 13 has been observed. The escalators replaced 380 steps and greatly facilitated access for the residents.

Moreover, cable cars were installed and integrated into public transport. People from the high-altitude neighborhoods now had a real chance to participate in the job market in the city and escape poverty.

The various art forms in the Commune reflect on the difficult past. Graffiti, breakdancing, and rap music are the elements used to convey messages here. In particular, the many graffiti artworks are remarkable.

Even though it can get quite crowded, we definitely recommend a visit. The neighborhood exemplifies the transformation in the country.

Starting tomorrow, we will go to the Caribbean - off to San Andrés Isla.