Palacio de la Cultura

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Palacio de la Cultura

El Centro, Medellín

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Entry Fee

Free

Location

Carrera 51 #52 01
Medellín Antioquia

Hours

8am - 5:30pm
Monday to Friday

9am - 4:30pm
Saturday

Closed
Sunday

Official Website

culturantioquia.gov.co

The Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe, formerly known as the Palacio de la Gobernación de Antioquia, is a significant public building in Colombia, located in el centro, the city center of Medellín. The building overlooks Plaza de Botero at the intersection of Calle 52 (Calibío) and Carrera 51 (Bolívar). It stands diagonally across from Parque Berrío Station and was designed by the Belgian architect Agustín Goovaerts.

The Palacio de la Cultura serves as the headquarters for the Institute of Culture and Heritage of the Government of Antioquia and holds the distinction of being declared a National Monument in 1982. This building offers a glimpse into Colombia’s architectural heritage.

History of the Palacio de la Cultura

The construction of the Palacio de la Cultura was marked by a long and tumultuous history. Agustín Goovaerts began work on the project in the early 1920s, at the same time with his involvement in other notable architectural projects, such as the Edificio Gonzalo Mejía and the Palacio Nacional. However, unlike those projects, only a quarter of the Palacio de la Gobernación was ever completed due to economic setbacks caused by the 1929 financial crisis and Goovaerts’ return to Belgium in 1928.

Jesús María Montoya M. took over the construction after Goovaerts, followed by Florencio Mejía in 1934. These architects had to navigate budget cuts, and by 1938, the construction was indefinitely halted with the northern side of the building and the facades along Bolívar and Calibío streets remaining unfinished.

It wasn’t until 1970 that the facades were finally completed, giving the building its definitive appearance. However, the final design deviated from Goovaerts’ original vision, encompassing only half of the intended project.

Things to do in Palacio de la Cultura

When you visit the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe in Medellín, you might be surprised by the diverse range of cultural and artistic activities available there. Here’s a quick guide on what to do when you explore this Colombian landmark.

Marvel at the Architectural Beauty

As you approach the Palacio, its striking Gothic Revival architecture and distinctive black and white checkered pattern exterior are impossible to miss. Take some time to appreciate the intricate details of the building’s design, which includes a play of light that can make the white bricks appear almost greenish at certain times of the day.

Cinema Screenings

Inside the palace, you’ll discover a cinema housed within its iconic dome. This auditorium regularly screens a variety of films, including documentaries, animated shorts, and independent movies not typically found in mainstream theaters like Cine Colombia. Check the website or pick up a monthly movie schedule at the palace to stay informed about upcoming screenings. It’s a unique cinematic experience that allows you to explore indie films in a captivating setting.

Educational Workshops

The palace hosts free workshops conducted by universities and academic organizations, covering a wide range of topics related to art and applied sciences. These workshops provide a fantastic opportunity to learn from professionals in various fields, offering insights into the world of art and culture. Topics can range from discussions on cinema and film to broader cultural subjects.

Dance and Music Performances

During Medellín’s holidays, such as Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Christmas, the palace often features dance shows and live music performances. Additionally, special dance festivals take place throughout the city. Festivals like the Si Danza festival showcase folkloric ballet, classical, and contemporary dance performances. Keep an eye on the palace’s schedule to catch these cultural events.

Theatrical Productions

Like dance shows, the palace occasionally hosts plays, and most of them are free of charge. This offers you the chance to enjoy quality theatrical performances without spending a dime. Immerse yourself in the world of drama and storytelling within the grandeur of the palace’s architecture.

Art Galleries

Explore the corridors and galleries of the palace to discover fine art exhibitions, including paintings and sculptures by renowned Colombian contemporary artists. It’s an opportunity to appreciate Colombian artistry and learn about the country’s cultural heritage. After your art exploration, take a breather on the upper plaza, which offers breathtaking views of the palace and Plaza de Botero.

Nearby Attractions

Botero Plaza

While on the upper plaza you can visit the small chapel. Enjoy the scenic views of the palace and Plaza de Botero, where you can also find vendors selling snacks, desserts, and fruits. It’s a great place to grab a quick snack or even pick up a souvenir to commemorate your visit to the Cultural Palace of Medellín.

Museo de Antioquia

The Museo de Antioquia, located in the heart of Medellín, Colombia, stands as one of the country’s most prominent art museums. Established in 1881, it houses a vast collection of works, notably featuring pieces by the renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Situated adjacent to the Plaza Botero, visitors are greeted by an outdoor display of Botero’s iconic, voluminous sculptures before exploring the museum’s rich array of historical and contemporary art inside.

Location Hours

Monday to Friday: 8am to 5:30pm
Saturday: 8am to 4:30pm
Sunday: Closed

How To Get to Palacio de la Cultura

Getting to the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe is a straightforward process due to its central location in Medellín. Here are some convenient transportation options to reach the palace.

Metro: One of the easiest and most efficient ways to get to the Palacio is by taking the metro. Simply board route A and get off at the Parque Berrio station. From there, it’s a short walk to the palace. The Medellín metro system is known for its accessibility and cleanliness, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

Taxi / Rideshare: Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and you can easily hail one on the street or find them at designated taxi stands. It’s advisable to use registered, official taxis with meters to ensure a fair fare. Inform the taxi driver of your destination, which is the Palacio de la Cultura, and they will take you there. Be sure to carry some Colombian pesos in cash for payment, as not all taxis accept card payments.

Bus: Several bus routes can also take you to the vicinity of the Palacio de la Cultura. Consider taking any of the following bus routes to reach your destination: Route 130, Route 130A, Route 135

Metro Plus: Take the Metro Plus to La Playa station, make sure you exit on La Playa street and then take a right or go west. Walk about 10 minutes and you will be in Parque Berrio station and the Palacio de la Cultura would be right there.