When people hear the words Medellin, Colombia, images of Pablo Escobar’s reign of terror in his drug capital usually comes to mind. But long are the times when young thugs ruled the crime-washed streets of this city. Today, Medellin is one of the most captivating cities in Latin America, enthralling tourists from every part of the world.
Medellin, Colombia sits in a sweeping valley situated in the very heart of Colombia. The climate is temperate, one of the things that locals and tourists alike are fond of because it allows them to go about their business without worrying about extreme weather conditions. Here, the sun is always shining. The streets are lined with different kinds of markets, merchants scrambling about selling anything and everything under the sun, including local delicacies, children’s toys, herbal cures, and even garden earth. It is best to try and blend in to avoid attracting unwanted attention from the Antioqueños, which is how Mendellinians are generally referred to.
Near the metro and into the center of the city lies a wide array of parks filled with statues of Botero, the famous Colombian sculptor who dedicated his life to capturing the obese in his art – paintings and sculptures. Botero is a pride of Medellin, one of the few claims to fame of the city. Past the center sprawls the Aburra Valley, a favorite place of photographers because of the amazing view it offers. High mountains can be seen surrounding the city, creating a panoramic sea of blue and green. More parks are located here, including the popular Arvi Regional Park in Santa Elena, visited for camping and ecological scouting purposes. The nearby hills are great tourist spots for music and dance, dining, shopping, and sightseeing.
One of the best times to visit Medellin is during December, when the city is decorated and adorned with colorful lights by the thousands, attracting national and international visitors all throughout the holiday season. As a Catholic nation, Christmas is celebrated in the whole of Colombia with religious fervor. Speaking of religion, the city has its share of notable churches, including the Veracruz Church (one of the most ancient ones standing in the Aburra Valley), the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria (located downtown), and the Metropolitan Cathedral (found in Bolivar Square), said to be the largest sacred building made purely out of bricks.
For an adventure that is unique, educational, and a real eye-opener, Medellin promises to give you all you want and more. Let the city change your mind – come to Medellin, Colombia today.