Medellín’s Comuna 13 attracts nearly 900,000 visitors annually, blending vibrant art with community-focused tourism. The merchandise and tours glorifying Pablo Escobar have overshadowed the identity of a city rooted in culture and innovation.
Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro faces global condemnation ahead of a sham January 10 inauguration, defying Edmundo González’s electoral win. Colombia’s silence risks endorsing authoritarianism as tensions escalate with protests and international pressure.
Colombia’s JEP and missing persons entity UBPD have uncovered human remains at La Escombrera, Medellín’s largest municipal dump, and remains linked to over 500 forced disappearances during the internal conflict.
The Museo Casa de Moneda in Bogotá, owned by Colombia’s Banco de la República, has opened a new exhibition titled 21st Century: A Country Changing Its Image. This marks the completion of a two-year renovation and explores Colombia’s evolving identity through nearly 300 artifacts, including coins and banknotes.
María Claudia Parias of Bogotá’s Idartes is at the heart of transformative initiatives. From the Biennale of Art for Childhood to innovative public spaces for dance and music, the Colombian capital is not only a hub of creativity but a city that understands the importance of art as a tool for social cohesion and individual well-being.
Bogotá’s Gold Museum unveils a revamped exhibit showcasing the iconic Muisca Raft and its ceremonial artifacts, discovered in Pasca, Cundinamarca. This intricate gold votive offering, tied to El Dorado mythology, highlights Muisca craftsmanship and spirituality. The exhibition opens December 19, featuring interactive displays and detailed cultural narratives.
UK citizen Christopher Neil was wanted on an INTERPOL red notice and is accused of orchestrating major cocaine shipments to the United Kingdom and engaging in extensive money laundering operations.
The UN’s claim of 20,000 unidentified bodies at Bogotá’s El Dorado Airport has sparked controversy, with Colombian officials rejecting the assertion as unverified. Despite the criticism, the UN defends its findings, citing credible sources.
Bogotá has mobilized 1,500 police officers to enhance safety during the Christmas season. Focused on nightlife, commerce, and tourism areas, the initiative includes advanced technology and strengthened patrols.
Colombian officials have challenged a UN claim that 20,000 unidentified bodies are stored in a hangar at Bogotá’s El Dorado Airport as baseless. A thorough investigation found no evidence supporting this dangerous allegation. Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán has demanded proof, warning the unverified claim could undermine trust in the Colombian capital.
Bogotá has launched the first-ever International Violin Contest: City of Bogotá, marking a significant cultural milestone for Latin America. The competition, open to violinists aged 18-30, offers prizes totaling US$70,000 and aims to elevate the Colombian capital’s reputation on the global stage.
Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo unveils its 2025 program, featuring 15 stellar performances to celebrate 15 years of cultural excellence. Highlights include The Philadelphia Orchestra, the Ballet of Teatro San Martín de Buenos Aires, and operas such as Nabucco and The Fairy Queen.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has vowed to impose visa requirements on British citizens in response to the United Kingdom’s decision to reinstate travel visas for Colombians starting December 24, 2024.
The United Kingdom will reintroduce visa requirements for Colombian nationals starting December 24, 2024, citing an increase in fraudulent asylum applications. Colombian Ambassador Roy Barreras confirmed the decision, stating it was prompted by a minority abusing the visa-free travel introduced in 2022.
Hundreds of Colombian veterans are leaving their country to fight in foreign wars, driven by economic hardship and promises of lucrative contracts. These soldiers, many with extensive combat experience from Colombia’s internal conflict, have become sought-after mercenaries in global hotspots such as Ukraine, Haiti, and Sudan.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro voiced strong support for the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Petro labeled Netanyahu a “genocidal maniac” and warned U.S. President Joe Biden against ignoring the ruling, claiming it would lead to “barbarism.”