Latest News

Bogotá’s ARTBO 2025 Weaves a Citywide Celebration of Culture

By Richard Emblin - September 23, 2025

Bogotá readies for ARTBO 2025, the city’s premier international art fair, running 25–28 September at Ágora Bogotá. Featuring 49 galleries, more than 170 artists, and a tribute to Beatriz González, the fair blends global names with emerging voices, curatorial projects, publishing, and guided tours for all audiences.

Bogotá braces for protests and mobility havoc on Tuesday

By The City Paper Staff - September 15, 2025

Bogotá drivers from multiple sectors plan a mass protest on September 17 against Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán, citing 18 grievances including corruption, insecurity, and abusive mobility policies. The demonstration threatens major traffic disruptions in Colombia’s capital.

Labor Ministry suspends Bogotá’s Andrés D.C. after safety incident

By The City Paper Staff - September 10, 2025

Colombia’s Ministry of Labor has ordered the immediate suspension of activities at Bogotá’s iconic Andrés D.C. restaurant after an inspection found safety risks. The decision follows an accident that left nine customers injured.

First Metro Train for Bogotá Arrives in Colombia

By Richard Emblin - September 2, 2025

Bogotá’s first metro train has arrived in Colombia after a 30-day journey from China, marking a historic milestone for the long-delayed project. The six-car train will undergo testing in the capital, with Line 1 expected to begin passenger service in March 2028.

Bogotá Strikes a Chord with Bach 340 Festival

By The City Paper Staff - August 27, 2025

Bogotá launches the first edition of Bogotá Concertante – Bach 340 (27–31 August 2025), a festival with 20 concerts, workshops and masterclasses across libraries, museums and theaters. Most events are free, celebrating Bach’s legacy and Colombia’s independent classical ensembles.

Colombia Says Goodbye to Miguel Uribe Turbay

By Richard Emblin - August 14, 2025

Miguel Uribe Turbay was laid to rest in Bogotá after an emotional farewell that began at the Capitol and ended at the Primary Cathedral. Leaders and citizens alike mourned the former senator, remembering his public service, legacy, and dedication to Colombia’s democratic values.

Colombia Ramps Up Anti-Trafficking Efforts at Airports and Overland Borders

By The City Paper Staff - July 31, 2025

On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Colombia reinforced efforts to combat human trafficking across airports and land borders, highlighting rescues abroad, citizen education, and tools like LibertApp, while strengthening international cooperation and judicial investigations against transnational trafficking networks.

Colombia’s AG Denies Assassination Plot Against Bogotá Mayor Carlos Galán

By Richard Emblin - July 23, 2025

Colombia’s Attorney General has denied reports of a plot to assassinate Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán, calling a wiretapped conversation aired by Noticias RCN a misinterpreted joke between drug dealers in Bucaramanga. The call appears to be unrelated to the investigation into the June 7 attack on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay.

Bogotá Cracks Down on Drug Gangs and Stolen Vehicle Parts in Security Sweeps

By Richard Emblin - July 18, 2025

Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán announced two major security operations: the arrest of 31 gang members distributing drugs near schools and universities, and the seizure of 150 stolen vehicle engines in Siete de Agosto. Galán warned that rising drug production is fueling urban crime nationwide.

Bogotá and Avianca Launch South America’s First Official “Stopover” Program

By Richard Emblin - July 16, 2025

Bogotá and Avianca have launched StopOver Bogotá, South America’s first official stopover program, allowing international transit passengers to explore the city for up to 24 hours. The initiative aims to attract 472,000 additional visitors and boost tourism revenue for key attractions.

Miguel Uribe Leads Colombian Presidential Poll After Assassination Attempt

By Richard Emblin - July 8, 2025

Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay leads early polls for the 2026 presidential race despite recovering from a June 7 assassination attempt. Authorities have arrested alias El Costeño, one of the alleged masterminds behind the attack. Uribe’s surge in support reflects growing public concern over security and political violence ahead of the elections.

“Liturgies of the Body: The Collector’s Gaze” at Bogotá’s Casa Republicana

By Richard Emblin - June 19, 2025

The exhibition titled Liturgies of the Body: The Collector’s Gaze opens at Bogotá’s Casa Republicana, showcasing works from the Proyecto Bachué. Spanning 1960–1980, the private collection explores how the human body reflects power, trauma, and identity through experimental visual art.

Colombia on Edge as Miguel Uribe Undergoes Emergency Brain Surgery

By Richard Emblin - June 16, 2025

More than 70,000 Colombians marched in Bogotá on Sunday, June 15, as part of the “March of Silence” – a historic demonstration that also drew major turnouts in Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, and at least 20 other cities. The March was summoned in solidarity with Miguel Uribe Turbay.

Miguel Uribe Turbay in Critical Condition After Assassination Attempt in Bogotá

By Richard Emblin - June 8, 2025

Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay is in critical condition after being shot in the head during a campaign event in Bogotá. A 15-year-old suspect is in custody. Authorities are investigating the motive as the country reels from the brazen attack on a presidential hopeful.

Artist of Earth and Time: Colombian artist Hugo Zapata dies at 80

By Richard Emblin - June 3, 2025

Hugo Zapata (1945–2025), renowned Colombian sculptor, passed away at 80 in El Retiro. Known for monumental black stone works evoking earth and ancestral memory, Zapata transformed Colombia’s public art landscape. His elemental forms bridged nature and spirit, leaving behind a legacy carved in stone and rooted in timeless reflection.

Petro “Loses the Street” as National Strike stalls with rising discontent

By Richard Emblin - June 1, 2025

President Petro’s failed national strike and empty plazas reveal his dwindling public support. As violent protests disrupt daily life, Colombians are turning away from his rhetoric, signaling that the President who once owned the streets has now lost them.