Hotels as Witnesses to Medellín's Transformation
In April 2026, as Medellín continues to reinvent itself as a tourist destination, its historic hotels hold secrets few know. Behind the facades of buildings like the Hotel Nutibara or the old Pensión Americana lie stories of spies, famous writers, and meetings that changed the city's course.
The Golden Era: Hotels as Centers of Power and Culture (1930-1960)
In the 1930s, Medellín experienced an architectural boom that included the construction of hotels designed to impress. The Hotel Nutibara, inaugurated in 1945 in the heart of the downtown (Cra 52 #50-46), was the first with an elevator and telephones in every room. Its terrace bar became the trendy spot for the Antioquian elite.
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Other Icons of the Era
- Hotel Europa: On Calle 53 with Carrera 49, it hosted the first international stars visiting the city.
- Gran Hotel: Where the Éxito supermarket of San Antonio now stands, it was a favorite among politicians and businessmen.
- Pensión Suiza: In the Boston neighborhood, it welcomed European immigrants fleeing the war.
Stories of Espionage and Diplomacy During World War II
When Colombia broke relations with the Axis in 1942, the Hotel Nutibara became a center for covert operations. Allied agents posed as tourists while monitoring the German and Italian community in Medellín.
Little-Known Facts
The hotel bar had a hidden listening system in the leather armchairs. Waiters jotted down suspicious conversations that occurred between sips of aguardiente. Today, some of these notes are part of the hotel's historical archive.
García Márquez and Other Literary Figures' Stays in Downtown Boarding Houses
In 1947, a young Gabriel García Márquez arrived in Medellín to study law. He stayed at the Pensión Ritz (Calle 49 #43-55), where, according to his own words, he "learned more about life than in the classrooms." There, he wrote his first short stories and met other bohemians.
Other Distinguished Guests
- Pensión Veracruz: For $5,000 COP per night (equivalent to $50,000 today), it hosted poets like León de Greiff.
- Hotel Continental: In the 1960s, it was a meeting point for the "Generación Sin Cuenta" (Countless Generation), a counter-cultural literary group.
How to Visit These Places Today
Many of these hotels retain their essence:
Hotel Nutibara
Its historic lobby (open to the public) still features the original marble floors and photographs from the era. La Terraza bar continues to operate with classic cocktails starting at $25,000 COP.
Pensión Americana
It is now the Hostel Americano (Calle 53 #45-65), with rooms starting at $60,000 COP/night. It preserves the spiral staircase that guests used in the 50s.
Literary Tour
The Casa Museo Otraparte in Envigado offers routes that include the boarding houses where writers stayed. Approximate price: $35,000 COP per person.
To experience these stories firsthand, several of these historic hotels continue to welcome guests. Booking a night in them is like traveling back in time without leaving Medellín.
Timeline or Historical Milestones
1940: Hotel Nutibara as a Spy Center
During World War II, the Hotel Nutibara became a strategic point for international espionage, hosting diplomats and secret agents. This place was not only a luxurious refuge but also an intelligence operations center in the region.
Insider Tip: Visit the hotel bar, where history still lingers. Order a classic cocktail and listen to the stories of former guests who used to frequent the place.
1950: The Golden Age of Hotel San Fernando Plaza
This hotel was one of the first to offer contemporary luxury in Medellín, attracting a high-profile clientele. Its architecture reflects the modernity of the era and has witnessed important political and social events.
Insider Tip: Don't miss breakfast at its restaurant. The city view from the top floor is spectacular, and their homemade arequipe is a delicacy you can't miss.
1990: The Revival of the Hotel Intercontinental
After years of neglect, this hotel was renovated and positioned itself as a symbol of Medellín's recovery in the 1990s. It became a meeting space for local culture and art.
Insider Tip: Check the hotel's cultural agenda. They often host exhibitions by local artists that reflect the city's cultural richness.
2020: The Rise of The Charlee Hotel
Located in El Poblado, this boutique hotel has captured attention for its focus on art and design, becoming a popular destination among younger tourists. It offers a unique experience that blends comfort and creativity.
Insider Tip: Enjoy an afternoon on the hotel's terrace. The panoramic sunset view over the city is an experience worth cherishing.
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Key Figures or Events
Hotel Nutibara
This emblematic hotel, inaugurated in 1945, was not only a landmark of Paisa architecture but also a center for espionage during the 1940s. Its strategic location in downtown Medellín made it the ideal place for clandestine meetings. Rumors claim its hallways hid more than one political secret.
Insider Tip: If you visit the Hotel Nutibara, don't miss the chance to try the famous ajiaco at its restaurant. Pair it with a good Colombian coffee for an authentic experience.
Hotel San Fernando Plaza
Since its opening in 1995, this hotel has been synonymous with luxury and modernity in Medellín. Its contemporary design and location in the El Poblado area make it ideal for enjoying the city's nightlife and best restaurants.
Insider Tip: Take advantage of the views from its top-floor terrace. It's a perfect spot to relax with a cocktail while watching the sunset over the city.
Hotel InterContinental Medellín
With over 40 years of history, the InterContinental has witnessed Medellín's growth. This hotel has hosted important political and cultural figures. Its architecture and gardens represent an oasis amidst the urban bustle.
Insider Tip: If you have the opportunity, attend one of the cultural events often held on its premises. It's an excellent way to connect with the local culture.
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