Comuna 13: How Locals Reclaimed the 'Most Dangerous Neighborhood in Latin America'

Six Months in South America, Part 18

 In Medellín, Colombia, I visited the infamous Comuna 13, one of my favorite tours to date. 

Once considered one of the most dangerous barrios in the Americas, Comuna 13 has experienced a creative reclamation in recent years. 

Local artists, rappers, and muralists exhibit their crafts, and the neighborhood has become one of the most popular tours in Medellín.

 Guides do not gloss over Comuna’s violent history, pointing out where mass graves litter the surrounding hills, but they are adamant that the theme of transformation is strong in the neighborhood, and things are steadily changing for the better.

You can wander the streets by yourself, but I recommend going with a local guide who will give you greater historical context into the area. Watch the street performers, chat with artisans, taste mango ice cream and fresh made empanadas, and check out the city lights as the sun sets.

It’s impressive to see this area that was almost destroyed by various groups, including narcos, paramilitaries, and the Colombian government, who locals say targeted civilians in the deadly events of Operation Mariscal and Orion. 

Today, they’ve built libraries, parks, and schools in Comuna 13. Childcare programs and support services for domestic violence survivors have been formed and funded. There are now Metrocable systems and escalators, connecting the barrio to the rest of the city. 

Comuna 13 is a case study in neighborhood reclamation through community programs, local-led tours, and artistic events. The barrio proves that when locals have resources, infrastructure, and the freedom to be creative, astonishing transformation will happen.