Cerro Nutibara

Parks & Nature

Belen, Medellín

Share on:

Entry Fee

Free Entry

Location

Cerro De Nutibara
Belén, Medellín

Hours

6am to 10pm
Daily

Official Website

None

Quick Morning Walk

Cerro Nutibara is a small hill formation located in the heart of Medellin. It is situated in the geographic center of the Aburrá Valley, on the western bank of the Medellin River, amidst the urban area. It is one of the few remaining ecosystems in the locality, making it an important attraction for nature lovers.

At the top of the hill, you will find Pueblito Paisa, an attraction that represents the municipalities of the Paisa Region. It was built in 1977 and features a museum, restaurants, and craft shops. The Pueblito Paisa is an excellent place to enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of the city.

However, even though it is the most well known tourist attraction for Pueblito Paisa, don’t let that fool you. There is a lot worth exploring at Cerro Nutibara. The hill also features the Carlos Vieco Open-Air Theater, which can accommodate 3,800 spectators. It was built in honor of the famous Colombian composer Carlos Vieco Ortiz.

The Parque de las Esculturas (Sculpture Park) is another attraction located on Cerro Nutibara. The park was created in 1983 and features sculptures made by eleven national and international artists. The sculptures are displayed in the natural surroundings of the hill, making it a unique experience for visitors.

Cerro Nutibara is one of the seven hills that make up the Cerros Tutelares (Tutelary Hills) of Medellin. These hills are a network of geographic features that run along the Aburrá Valley, and they hold significant historical, archaeological, ecological, and tourist value.

The history of Cerro Nutibara

The history of Cerro Nutibara dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries when Medellín was a small town known as the Villa de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria. At that time, Cerro Nutibara was not a part of the town’s landscape and was known as “Morro Marcela de la Parra,” named after the owner of the remote lands across the Medellín River. The hill was later named “El Morro de Los Cadavides” after a family with the same surname became its new owners.

It wasn’t until 1927 that the Municipality of Medellín purchased the hill for $50,000 pesos. The purpose of the purchase was to convert the hill into a recreational park while conserving its ecological characteristics as the city was rapidly growing and slowly enveloping the hill. In 1929, the Society for Public Improvements proposed a name change for the hill to make it less private and more public, while also reflecting the region’s identity.

Although a competition was initially suggested to find a new name, the members of the society ultimately chose the name “Nutibara” to honor Cacique Nutibara, one of the richest and most powerful chieftains of the department of Antioquia, whose domain extended across the west, from the Serranía de Abibe to the Cauca River.

Early stages of the design and construction

After the name change in 1930, the Municipality authorized the Society for Public Improvements to work on designs and plans for the construction of a recreational park on the hill. The proposals had to be presented and approved by the Municipal Council. In 1939, the “Nutibara Futuro” plan was approved, which included the construction of internal and external roads to facilitate access, roundabouts, kiosks, tree planting, parking lots, a lake, waterfalls, rustic bridges, pedestrian paths, viewpoints, and a restaurant at the summit.

The first 510 trees were planted in August 1939, while Ricardo Olano, who dreamed of planting 60,000 trees, oversaw the planting process. The construction of the first road, which became the main road, began in the same year and had an entrance through 30A Street, which was illuminated by the Electricity Company in 1955. The Society for Public Improvements and the Municipality of Medellín worked together on several projects, including the construction of the first water tank between 1940 and 1943 to supply water to the hill.

In 1951, the Municipality decided to give the hill on lease to the Society for Public Improvements, which would be responsible for its administration and the construction of a public park or promenade. Although the first restaurant was inaugurated in October of the same year with the collaboration of the Municipality, sixteen years later, in 1967, the Mayor at that time requested that the contract with the Society be canceled due to its non-compliance with the construction of the public park. Since then, the Municipality of Medellín has managed Cerro Nutibara.

Parque de las Esculturas (Sculpture Park)

Parque de las Esculturas, or Park of the Sculptures, is a cultural public space located in the foothills of the Cerro Nutibara. This park is home to an impressive collection of sculptures and monuments, which attract locals and tourists alike. The park was created in 1983 as an initiative by former Colombian president Belisario Betancur. The installation of the displays was coordinated by the Museum of Modern Arts of Medellin.

The park is a peaceful and beautiful place to explore. It is filled with lush greenery and vibrant colored flowers that create a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths, admiring the various sculptures and monuments. The park features a variety of works by local and international artists, including sculptures of famous figures, abstract works, and more. The park includes works by Sergio Camargo (Brasil), Carlos Cruz Díez (Venezuela), Manuel Falguerez (Mexico), Otto Herbert Hajek (Germany), Julio Le Parc (Argentina), Édgar Negret (Colombia), John Castles (Colombia), Ronny Vayda (Colombia) and Alberto Uribe (Colombia)

In addition to its sculptures and monuments, Parque de las Esculturas also offers a variety of activities and events. Visitors can take part in yoga classes, cultural workshops, and art classes. The park also hosts a variety of festivals and concerts throughout the year, making it a great place to experience the city’s culture. Parque de las Esculturas is a beautiful and peaceful place to explore. With its stunning sculptures and monuments, it is a great place to learn about the city’s culture and history. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting event, this park has something for everyone.

Teatro al Aire Libre “Carlos Vieco”

Teatro al Aire Libre “Carlos Vieco”, also known as The Carlos Vieco Theater is a popular attraction located near the Nutibara Hill in Medellin, Colombia. The theater was built in 1984 and named after Carlos Vieco Ortiz, a renowned Colombian musician and composer. The theater has become a cultural icon in Medellin and hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year.

The theater features a modern design with a total capacity of 3,800 people. It is equipped with sound and lighting systems, making it an ideal venue for concerts, dance performances, theatrical productions, and other artistic events. The interior of the theater is adorned with beautiful murals and artwork, which add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the venue.The theater also hosts performances by local and international artists, providing a diverse range of entertainment options for visitors.

The theater is easily accessible from the Nutibara Hill and can be reached by walking or biking along the scenic trails that wind through the park. The hill offers breathtaking views of the city, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The Carlos Vieco Theater is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the vibrant cultural scene of Medellin.

The theater has a unique atmosphere and is a great place to experience the city’s culture and traditions. Whether you’re looking for a place to watch a show, explore the galleries, or simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere, the Carlos Vieco Theater is an excellent choice.

Pueblito Paisa

Pueblito Paisa, or Little Town of Paisa, is a cultural tourist attraction located in Medellin, Colombia. It is a replica of a traditional Colombian mountain town, complete with cobblestone streets and colonial-style architecture. The town was founded in 1977 by local entrepreneur, Francisco de Paula Cadavid. He wanted to create a cultural tourist attraction that would showcase the culture and traditions of the region. The town was built on top of Cerro Nutibara, overlooking the city of Medellin.

Pueblito Paisa is made up of several plazas, where visitors can explore the town’s various attractions. The main plaza is home to a statue of the Virgin Mary and a clock tower, which rings every hour. The town is also home to a variety of other attractions, amongst them is also a chapel, a chapel-museum, and a replica of a colonial-style house.

Pueblito Paisa is a great place to experience the culture and traditions of Colombia. Visitors can explore the town’s plazas and attractions, sample traditional Colombian cuisine, and take in the stunning views of the city. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or a fun day out, Pueblito Paisa is an excellent choice.

To learn more about Pueblito Paisa. We wrote up an extensive guide here

Museo de Ciudad

Located near the top of Nutibara hill, next to Pueblito Paisa, lies the Museo de Ciudad or Medellín’s City Museum. Despite being relatively small, the museum is worth visiting, especially if you’re already in the area. The Museo de Ciudad aims to showcase the urban and social history of the city of Medellín. One of its most interesting exhibits is the photo gallery, featuring photos from the late 19th century up to the 1950s. These photos provide a glimpse into the rich history of Medellín and its development over time.

The Biblioteca Publica Piloto de Medellín initiated a process in the early 1980s to collect the visual and photographic history of the city, which resulted in an impressive collection of about 1,700,000 images. Many of these images are now displayed in the Museo de Ciudad, providing a valuable opportunity for visitors to gain insight into the city’s past.

In addition to the photo exhibit, the museum has a fascinating scale model of the city of Medellín, which is a permanent display. This scale model provides an interactive experience and allows visitors to see the layout and development of the city from a unique perspective.

The Museo de Ciudad is currently operated by the Pedro Nel Gómez Casa Museo Foundation. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, providing ample opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history of Medellín. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the city’s past, the Museo de Ciudad is an excellent place to visit.

What to eat and drink

Nutibara Hill is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Medellin, Colombia. Not only does it offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, but it is also home to Pueblito Paisa, a small town that showcases the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the Antioquia region. While exploring Cerro Nutibara, visitors can find a wide variety of food options to choose from.

If you’re looking for a quick snack, there are food carts located at the front of the town that offer small snacks. A popular treat here is an ice cream sandwich that is served inside a flat waffle, a delicious and refreshing option to try on a hot day.

For those who prefer a sit-down meal, there are several restaurants located around the square. These restaurants offer a variety of local and international cuisines to choose from, such as pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. However, most of the restaurants here offer typical Colombian food, including the bandeja paisa, a platter that consists of rice, beans, beef, sausage, fried egg, and avocado.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore the smaller restaurants behind the buildings, there are more options available. Down the stairs past the statues of the indigenous chief Nutibara, visitors can find restaurants that offer typical Colombian food as well as international options.

Getting There & Parking

Cerro Nutibara is easily accessible by several transportation options. Visitors can reach the hilltop park by taxi, bus, metro, or even on foot. Taxis are a convenient way to get to the park from anywhere in the city. Many taxi drivers know the way to the park, and the ride is usually affordable.

Another option is to take the bus. Several bus routes pass near the park, making it easy to reach. However, visitors should be aware that buses in Medellin can be crowded, and the routes may not be familiar to non-locals. It’s recommended to check with locals or a map before taking a bus to the park.

The metro is another popular way to get to Cerro Nutibara. Visitors can take Line A (the blue line) and get off at the Industriales station. From there, they can transfer to a bus or taxi to reach the park. The metro is a convenient option for visitors staying in areas close to the metro stations.

For those who prefer to walk, there are several paths and staircases leading up to the park. The walk can be a bit challenging due to the steep hill, but it’s a great way to enjoy the surrounding nature and scenic views of the city. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for the walk.

All in all, there are several transportation options available to reach Cerro Nutibara, including taxis, buses, metro, and walking. Visitors can choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.