History of the Comuna 13 in Medellin Colombia
One of the most visited places in Colombia by people from other cities and countries, is the Comuna 13 in Medellin. This area is located on the west side of the city. In the past it was one of the main focus points of narco violence in Colombia. It is the place where the government was forced to launch a military operation called Orion, in order to retake control of the area. There is plenty of information to read about online and books that tell the violent history of the Comuna 13.
Most recently, there has been a lot of publicity regarding the social programs used by the government to help out this community. However, you have to go there to really see and experience how the transformation has contributed to the improvement of the area. Visiting the area makes you realize how communities can overcome violent situations and flourish. There has been a complete makeover and the area has changed dramatically in a few years.
The comuna 13 is known by the name of «The cradle of Pablo Escobar«, where long ago it was an epicenter of drug related violence. Its poorly built houses and huts constructed on the edge of cliffs and side of the hills, with narrow paths and streets, generated a perfect setting for criminals to control the population by fear. These organized lawbreakers used the area as a base for their drug trafficking activities.
READ MORE ABOUT VIOLENT TIMES IN THE COMUNA 13 HERE
At one time, mainly the late part of the 90s this area was completely controlled by gangs and paramilitary illegal groups. The government had very little to almost no presence in the Comuna 13 in those days. In order to regain control of the area, the government was forced to use the military at the turn of the century. Two of the bloodiest as well as most remembered military operations in the city occurred there, Operation Mariscal and Orion. This was the only way that the government was able to push these gangs and criminal organizations out of the Comuna 13.
The direct connection between the Comuna 13 and violence, bit by bit has diminished, thanks to initiatives of its own people. Especially young musicians and artists with the support from the government. Nowadays it is transformed into a prominent tourist attraction and one of the most visited sites in the city. The history of the Comuna 13 it is very valuable information in order to understand its transformation.
One of the most sought after things to see in the Comuna 13, of Medellin
Escalators out in public is one of the things that most visitors cannot believe they would find in the Comuna 13. Among the important things that the City Government did to totally transform the Comuna 13 was building and installing escalators in the alleys throughout the steep hills in the area. The purpose of this project was to promote accessibility for everyone, in turn they have become landmarks of the city.
There are free public escalators throughout the Comuna 13. This project undoubtedly transformed the area and improved the lives of its residents. The construction of these escalators made the area a lot more reachable to visitors and its own residents. It also provided a more secure environment for businesses. This in turn decrease the levels of violence and drug trafficking in the area.
Comuna 13 Graffiti Tours
As a result of the installations of the escalators throughout the Comuna 13, young artists from the area were motivated to show their talent. They use their art to change the look of the area, from poorly looking neighborhoods to brilliant clean and organized urban artworks. What was once a very disorganized area comparable to the favelas in Brazil, is now a combination of amazing murals and urban artwork. Making Comuna 13 among the main tourist sightseeing destinations in Medellin.
There are tours organized by its residents of all the sites within the Comuna 13. One of the most requested is the Graffiti tour which showcases local artist artwork from an urban perspective.
Thinking about traveling to Medellin? Do not miss a visit to the Comuna 13
Among the most common ways to visit the Comuna 13 is by taking one of many tours offered throughout the city. What is the best tour? Although you will find many free tours online and other offered by some travel sites, the best guided tours are those provided by locals. Free tour guides will most likely solicit a tip at the end of the tour and some of these guides are not really knowledgeable about the area. A local fixed cost tour provided for by a local resident is a better option. The cost of these tours is very low and you will get a real experience with real stories added. Most of the local guides for this type of tour speak English and will take you to places off the beaten trail.
There are scenic tours that begin at the San Javier Metro Station and up through the neighborhoods from where you can visit the murals as well as graffiti artwork. Prior to beginning the tour, the guides give specific suggestions to bear in mind (none have to do with safety problems), but instead more about not feeding or petting stray dogs, to avoid being bitten. As well as to avoid giving money to youngsters or teenagers on the street. The reason for this, is the community does not want to promote this type of behavior in young residents of the Comuna 13. They rather teach young people to educate themselves and work for a living.
If you take one of the walking tours, you can see first-hand graffiti from different artists and street musicians. Other artwork is from foreign visitors who contribute their art to the neighborhoods as a form of support for the community.
Recommendation for visitors to the Comuna 13
Bring a full battery for your camera or cellphone as well as an empty or big memory card, due to the fact that you are going to wish to take pictures of all the graffiti and beautiful artwork.
Listen to the stories and history of the Comuna 13, so you can appreciate the change it has experienced. Going from being among one of the most fierce and complicated locations in Colombia, just a couple of years ago, to being a vibrant and very tourist friendly location.
Visit the Comuna 13 in Medellin on your next trip
Medellin is an extremely fascinating city with a special ambiance. But if you come to Medellin and don’t visit the Comuna 13 you will miss one of the most gratifying experiences of your life. If you cannot make it soon, you can read the stories of the Comuna !3 in Medellin by taking a look at this excellent book.