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In 20 years, Medellín went from being the most violent to the most innovative
It has been 20 years since the fall of the most feared drug lord, Pablo Escobar, after an intense search.
These have been 20 years dedicated by many, including its governors and leaders, to healing the suffering, 20 years of forgiveness for the victims, 20 years of active search for the truth, two decades of transformation, a transformation in which Medellín has become an admired metropolis and very different from that of 20 years ago
This is the opinion of Luis Alirio Calle Muñoz, a radio journalist and writer, with more than 30 years of professional practice, remembered for having been invited by Pablo Escobar Gaviria to accompany him on the day of his submission to justice, on June 20, 1991
Calle Muñoz highlights that Medellín is today perhaps one of the few cities in the world with an exceptional example of what it means to emerge from the midst of pain to a social transformation. “Medellín is an example of active indignation, an enlightened indignation, I translate it into the dignity of pain because if in any city drug trafficking and the war on drugs caused pain it was in Medellín and much of that pain is there, much of that pain is still alive and unrepaired,” says the journalist. Despite the pain of the victims, those who for Luis Alirio have not had enough voice, the city of eternal spring, the one known as the thriving one, the one of the muleteers, the one of those who went forward “did not stay crying its pain.” “The city managed to get out of that headline that was floating around: Medellín is the most violent city in the world. A headline that seemed unfair to me because saying that a city is the most violent in the world is to involve all citizens in violence and that was not really the case,” specifies Calle Muñoz. He believes that Medellín rose from the stigmatization it experienced due to the actions and violence of Pablo Escobar's cartel in a speed that is impressive today. “The city rose from that in a relatively short time. I believe that in Medellín there is a spirit capable of achieving great things and it is not in vain that people from many places come to the city today, particularly from cities that are suffering from this problem and want to see how Medellín managed to overcome everything.” In 1993, when Escobar died, Luis Alirio Calle was directing the first regional television newscast called: Informativo de Antioquia. He confesses today, so many years later, that it was chaos for him to make decisions in the midst of news of such magnitude
“It was chaotic, even though that was the center of the information, I say this because it was talked about all day long, there was no other topic in the city and in the country other than the fall of Pablo Escobar. That is to say, there was so much information, I am speaking from a journalistic point of view, that one did not know where to start,” he admits.

Remember that Medellín became the news not only of the country but of the world due to an event that occurred in one of its neighborhoods and that in the midst of it opinions were swirling from one side to the other, he says that most of them had an air of hope: “Those voices of hope emerged. That drug trafficking was going to end, narco-terrorism, that peace was going to come to the country, all that was said, narco-terrorism really came to an end, fortunately, that was a phenomenon specifically raised by the Medellín cartel against the Colombian state and against the people because with what they did with the car bombs, for example, it meant deaths for many people who had nothing to do with it, but drug trafficking did not end, it is that drug trafficking did not depend on Escobar, drug trafficking is a global problem”

Despite this, he emphasizes that the city survived the aftermath of pain, “that ghost of drug trafficking in the city has risen and although many still come attracted by that story, they come now with more confidence, they know that Medellín is another story.” These are facts that have transformed the city and have allowed it to receive great national and international recognition and to be chosen as the venue for world-class competitions, as well as the award given by The Wall Street Journal as the most innovative city in the world. This shows that it did not let itself be overwhelmed by what it experienced 20 or 25 years ago when it was in the news for being a violent city.


ACCORDING TO IA

The "image" of a city represents how it is perceived by the outside world and how this perception impacts its identity, tourism, and development. Over the past few decades, many cities in Latin America and worldwide have realized that redefining their image is essential to attract investments, tourists, and build a more positive identity. Medellín is one of the most powerful examples of this transformation, evolving from a city once synonymous with violence and drug trafficking in the 1980s and 90s to a global example of innovation and resilience.

Medellín’s Past Image

In the 1980s and 90s, Medellín was globally perceived as a dangerous and chaotic city, largely due to violence from drug trafficking and the control the Medellín cartel, led by Pablo Escobar, had over the area. This stigma was reinforced by international media coverage that focused on insecurity, assassinations, and urban conflict. Medellín, with deep social inequalities and few economic opportunities, became associated with extreme violence and a fractured social system. This image stigmatized not only Medellín but Colombia as a whole, limiting tourism, investment, and local pride.

The Quest for a New Image

In the early 2000s, Medellín began implementing a series of policies and projects aimed at overcoming this dark past. One of the most crucial factors was focusing on social and urban innovation. Medellín decided that its transformation should focus on resolving inequalities and improving the quality of life for its residents, a strategy that led to groundbreaking projects in low-income neighborhoods. The construction of the Metro system, the only one in Colombia, and the installation of electric escalators in Comuna 13, which facilitated residents' access to services and opportunities in other parts of the city, are examples of this transformation.

Iconic Projects

1. Inclusive Infrastructure: Medellín has become a model for inclusive urbanism, with projects aimed at integrating marginalized neighborhoods and providing equal access to services. Besides the Metro, which represents a cultural symbol of pride, the city developed cable cars to connect high-altitude areas with the center. This approach turned mobility from a problem into a tool for social cohesion.


2. Education and Culture: Investment in education and culture has also been central to this transformation. With projects like the library parks, Medellín has created spaces for learning and community development in vulnerable areas. This approach goes beyond infrastructure; it seeks to empower people and reduce the conditions that foster conflict. These spaces have helped Medellín establish its identity as a city of knowledge and opportunities.


3. Innovation and Technology: Medellín has embraced technology and innovation as pillars of development, positioning itself as a tech hub in Latin America. The creation of Ruta N, an innovation and business center, has turned Medellín into a magnet for startups and tech companies. This shift not only gives Medellín a positive image but one that is also modern and dynamic.



Medellín's New Global Image

Today, Medellín is widely recognized as a “City of Eternal Spring” and a center of culture, technology, and creativity, positioning itself as an attractive destination for tourism and business. The contrast between its past and present image demonstrates how cities can reshape their global identities through social and urban transformation, creating a new identity that not only leaves behind but transcends the shadows of their history.

Medellín’s evolution highlights the powerful role of resilience and innovation, proving that a city’s image can indeed be redefined through sustained commitment to progress and community-centered development


BOGOTÁ

Bogotá Cómo Vamos presents indicators that show the evolution of the capital in the last two decades, based on measurements carried out since 1998, the year in which the program was created. Between 1998 and 2018, violent deaths were reduced by more than half, coverage in education and health increased, poverty decreased, and maternal and infant mortality decreased considerably. Although challenges persist, living conditions in Bogotá show, in general, significant progress in several sectors.
Bogotá, July 30, 2018
The measurements that Bogotá Cómo Vamos has made of the quality of life in the city during its 20 years of monitoring show a positive transformation of the capital.
In the last two decades, Bogotá improved its indicators in public health, education, housing, violent deaths, and economic performance. Although challenges persist in terms of security, equitable distribution of income, satisfaction with public transportation, and some environmental issues, the figures, in general, reveal an evolution in the quality of life of the people of Bogotá from 1998 to date. In 20 years, poverty was reduced by more than half, gross coverage in education increased by 6 percentage points (at all levels), the number of members of the subsidized health regime grew by 28% and overall malnutrition in children under 5 years of age went from 20% to 5%.
Maternal mortality and infant mortality also show a downward trend.
Violent deaths, on the other hand, fell by more than half, homicide figures were reduced by a third, fatal victims in traffic accidents decreased by 40% and cycle path coverage increased sixfold. Air pollution from PM10 particulate matter was also reduced and the number of trees in the city doubled.
It is also worth noting that between 1998 and 2018 Bogotá doubled its GDP and there is a boom in the creation of companies. Last year, for example, 71,258 people were born, while in 2000 only 1,068 were created.
A particular fact: the inflation rate in these 20 years fell by 12 percentage points, from 17% to 4.6%.

How has the city changed in 20 years according to the figures of Bogotá Cómo Vamos?
In 1998, Bogotá had 6 million inhabitants. More than half of the citizens used the bus and minibus as their main means of transport, the landline telephone was essential in homes and telephone booths predominated on the streets of Bogotá. By then, 21% of the capital's inhabitants considered these to be good.

Below are some facts that show the transformation in the quality of life of the people of Bogotá, measured by the Bogotá Cómo Vamos program:

“A city with important achievements in social policy”
In 2002, three out of 10 people in Bogotá were poor (32%) while in 2017 only 1 out of 10 (12%). Despite this achievement, income concentration has not had major variations.
Gross coverage in vocational secondary education (10th and 11th grade) went from 56% in 1998 to 86% in 2017. Twenty years ago, 34,730 students dropped out of the educational system; in 2016, 19,449 did so, that is, 44% less.
In 1998 there were 915,502 members of the subsidized health system. Today, there are 1,175,245 beneficiaries belonging to the poor and vulnerable population.
Between 1998 and 2017, infant mortality dropped from 17 to 9 cases per 1,000 live births. Meanwhile, global malnutrition dropped from 20% to 5%.
In the last two decades, maternal mortality has been reduced by a third. In 1998, there were 92 cases, while in 2017 it reached 27 cases per 100,000 live births.

“A city with better infrastructure and more opportunities”
Bogotanos increasingly use Transmilenio as their main means of transport. In 2001, 6% used it, and in 2017, 37% of citizens. However, today only 19% say they are satisfied with Transmilenio.
In 1998, more than half (56%) of citizens used the bus and minibus as their main means of transport. Today, it is Transmilenio and SITP (55%).
The coverage of bicycle routes increased from 60 to 386 kilometers and in two decades the percentage of Bogota residents who use the bicycle as their main means of transportation increased from 1% to 9%.
In the last 10 years, housing ownership has changed in the city. In 2003, 51% of households owned their own home; today, 42% of households say so.
Bogota has increased the number of homes. In 2005, there were 1,758,344 homes in Bogota, while today there are 2,649,737 homes.
Bogota residents feel increasingly satisfied with their neighborhood. Today, 7 out of 10 say so, while in 2011 only 4 out of 10 did.

“A city with fewer violent deaths”
12. In 1998, the rate of violent deaths was 70 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Today, it is 29 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
13. Twenty years ago, there were 41 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, while today there are 14 cases. This means a reduction of 66%.
14. In 1999, there were about 900 deaths in traffic accidents, and in 2017, around 550.
15. The perception of safety in the neighborhood has increased: In 1998, 24% of citizens felt safe in their neighborhood. Today, this figure rises to 40%.

“A city with challenges to become more sustainable”
16. The number of vehicles is constantly growing. In the last 10 years, the number of private vehicles has increased by 81%. Motorcycles in particular have increased by 300%. In 2008, there were around 900,000 private vehicles and in 2016, there were around 1,600,000. Regarding motorcycles, in 2007 there were around 115,000 and in 2016, around 470,000 private motorcycles.
17. The number of trees per 100,000 inhabitants in the city has doubled, from 7,100 in 2002 to 15,755 in 2017.
18. Between 1998 and 2017, there has been a 29% reduction in PM10 particulate matter pollution: from 58 to 41 micrograms per cubic metre.
19. Today, half of the citizens are satisfied with the parks and green areas in the capital (49%). In 2010, 38% said so.

“An increasingly competitive city, with a strengthened economy”
20. We have doubled the GDP: in 2000 it was $72.362 billion and today it is $147.080 billion. In addition, the number of companies created in Bogotá increased: it went from 1,068 in 1998 to 71,258 companies in 2017. The business base went from 168,972 companies registered in 2000 to 424,471 companies registered in 2017.
21. The District strengthened its income. In terms of own resources, it went from 46% in 1998 to 81% in 2017.
22. Bogotá's debt level has been reduced. The debt balance on current income went from 46% in 1998 to 13% in 2017.

ACCORDING TO IA

Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, has been on a journey to redefine its global image, transforming from a city overshadowed by issues of security, internal conflict, and inadequate infrastructure into one that aspires to be a modern, vibrant, and environmentally conscious urban center. Over recent decades, Bogotá has embraced policies and projects to reshape how it is perceived internationally, moving toward a new identity that contrasts sharply with its past.

Bogotá’s Past Image

In the late 20th century and early 2000s, Bogotá was often viewed through the lens of Colombia’s internal struggles. The city faced challenges related to violence due to the country’s armed conflict, the presence of illegal groups, and rising urban crime. Additionally, inadequate infrastructure, severe traffic congestion, pollution, and social inequality created a complex environment that projected Bogotá as a challenging place to live and visit. While Bogotá did not carry the same intense stigma as Medellín, these issues affected its national and international reputation, making it difficult to attract tourists and investors and overshadowing its rich history and culture.

The Search for a New Image

Starting in the 2000s, Bogotá implemented several initiatives to improve its image, appeal to visitors, and attract investment. Local leaders championed reforms and infrastructure projects to enhance the quality of life for residents and create a positive perception of the city. Key elements in Bogotá’s reinvention have been sustainable mobility, inclusive urban development, and cultural vibrancy. This comprehensive approach has laid the foundation for Bogotá to transition into a city known not just for its past struggles, but for its progress, innovation, and unique cultural identity.

Signature Projects and Innovations

1. TransMilenio and Sustainable Mobility: One of Bogotá’s most renowned projects has been the TransMilenio, a bus rapid transit (BRT) system introduced as a more organized and efficient means of urban transport. Although TransMilenio has faced challenges related to overcrowding, it has set an example for cities across Latin America and beyond. The city has also prioritized cycling infrastructure, developing one of the most extensive cycling networks in the region. This focus on alternative and sustainable transportation has been a strategic shift to position Bogotá as a forward-thinking, eco-friendly city.


2. Public and Cultural Spaces: Bogotá has made significant investments in creating and revitalizing public spaces to improve quality of life and foster a sense of community. Central areas like Plaza de Bolívar and major parks have been renovated, and Bogotá is now known for its festivals, such as the Ibero-American Theater Festival and Rock al Parque, one of Latin America’s largest free rock festivals. These events, which attract both locals and international visitors, have helped position Bogotá as an open, multicultural, and dynamic city with a vibrant arts scene.


3. Environmental and Sustainability Efforts: Bogotá has increasingly embraced policies focused on sustainability to combat pollution and improve urban health. The city has worked to protect its eastern hills, reforest green areas, and rehabilitate the Bogotá River, historically one of the region’s most polluted rivers. Additionally, Bogotá has started adopting clean energy initiatives, showing a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Though environmental challenges remain, these steps contribute to a new image of Bogotá as a city that values and prioritizes sustainable growth.


4. Focus on Social Inclusion and Innovation: Recent efforts have also aimed at tackling social inequality through inclusive urban design and projects that support lower-income areas. Urban policies have focused on creating educational opportunities, building cultural centers, and ensuring access to services, especially in underserved neighborhoods. By integrating these areas into the broader urban landscape, Bogotá seeks to create a more inclusive city, improving both the lives of its residents and its social image.



Bogotá’s Emerging Global Image

Today, Bogotá is seen as a city of contrasts, where modern innovation meets cultural richness, and urban vibrancy coexists with a deep commitment to social and environmental sustainability. Known increasingly for its festivals, museums, gastronomy, and arts, Bogotá’s cultural offerings attract visitors from around the world. The city has also positioned itself as a model of sustainable mobility, with plans for new metro lines and continued expansion of cycling infrastructure. This evolving image is essential for Bogotá’s global standing, especially as the city competes for tourism and economic opportunities.

The Path Forward: Bogotá’s Vision for the Future

Bogotá’s shift in image is an ongoing process that shows how cities can evolve beyond past stigmas by investing in long-term projects that prioritize community, environmental resilience, and cultural promotion. Bogotá’s transformation has been incremental and is not without challenges, but it demonstrates that a city can fundamentally reshape its identity by addressing critical urban issues and focusing on its strengths. Today, Bogotá’s image is one of a resilient and innovative city, working toward a future defined by inclusion, culture, and sustainability.

In redefining its image, Bogotá presents an inspiring example of urban reinvention. Its journey highlights that a city’s reputation is not static and that through intentional planning and commitment to progress, a place can change not only how it is seen but how it envisions its role in the world. For Bogotá, the pursuit of a positive image isn’t just about attracting visitors or investment—it's about building a livable, cohesive, and thriving city for its residents and future generations.


LA PAZ
Since the 1980s, Bolivia has undertaken, with the help of multilateral agencies, the most radical neoliberal structural adjustment in Latin America, comparable only to that carried out by the Augusto Pinochet dictatorship in the 1970s, under the ideological leadership of the Chicago Boys. Their macroeconomic shock plan of 1985, the New Political Economy (nep) and its neo-institutional complement of 1993, the Social Market Economy (ems) were the most faithful experiments to the texts and constituted experiences that were aired in the world as successful cases, worthy of admiration and imitation. The rebel cycle had four peak confrontations: that of the year 2000 in defense of water, those of the coca growers and the Aymaras between 2000 and 2003, and that of 2003 on hydrocarbons. They confronted the transnational privatization of the basic natural resources for life and the functioning of the productive system: water, land, gas. Once again, Bolivia was an example for the world, but now for those who hoped that things could be done and lived in a way other than under the rule of the commodification of natural resources and people's lives.51 Who were the social subjects who challenged the pillars of the international order? In the nineties, the leading role came from the countryside with the indigenous and peasant population who, in the midst of the adjustment, achieved very important counter-current advances, such as the recognition of lands that could not be alienated, subdivided or sold. Now, at the beginning of the new century, "urban popular movements" and peasants joined in a leading role that questioned other foundations of the economic model: the privatization of water and non-renewable natural energy resources.

For the popular revolt to have the capacity to become an alternative to power, six conditions were met, analyzed in this account of the main struggles of the time known under the epithet of the "rebellious cycle": 1) a drastic and sudden deterioration of living conditions; 2) a feeling of injustice and anger against the government for penalizing the popular sectors in the midst of the crisis, while increasing the privileges of national and foreign private companies; 3) the formation of a broad social block that alternated in the leadership of the struggles; 4) the ability to sustain the protests for a long period, with episodes of great intensity; 5) the construction of an alternative programmatic platform as the very expression of the mobilizations of the different sectors; and 6) the massive feeling that an "alternative agenda of power" was not only desirable, but possible and viable. Similarly, two additional conditions were generated in Bolivia, which allowed the transition from the "vocation of power" to the "taking of state power." On the one hand, the collapse of the dominant political system and on the other, the construction of a political alternative largely invested by the social movement as a representative of the agenda of change, the MAS.



ACCORDING TO IA


La Paz’s Past Image

For years, La Paz was seen internationally as an exotic city, primarily recognized for its high altitude at over 3,500 meters above sea level and for being Bolivia’s political center. While its geography and indigenous culture provided a unique allure, the city also carried an image of chaotic urban development, with infrastructure issues, poverty, and inequality. Its lack of effective public transport and the challenges posed by its steep geography, coupled with pollution problems, limited its development and framed La Paz as a place more complex than modernized and accessible.

The Pursuit of a New Image

Since the 2000s, La Paz has launched projects and strategies to improve its infrastructure, modernize urban services, and enhance its cultural heritage, aiming to present itself not only as a political capital but as a vibrant, innovative, and tourist-friendly city. Efforts to improve urban connectivity, highlight cultural festivals, and emphasize indigenous heritage have been central to this transformative process.

Key Projects and Transformation Strategies

1. Mi Teleférico: Innovation in Urban Mobility: One of La Paz’s most revolutionary projects has been Mi Teleférico, an aerial cable car system that connects various points in the city and the neighboring city of El Alto. This transport system is the largest of its kind globally and has been critical in resolving mobility challenges, especially in a mountainous city where traditional road routes are complex to build. Mi Teleférico has also improved accessibility for low-income communities, facilitating access to services and jobs, and has become a symbol of La Paz as an innovative, modern city.


2. Rescue and Promotion of Andean Culture: La Paz has worked intensively to promote its rich indigenous and mestizo culture. Events such as the Gran Poder, a religious and cultural celebration that gathers thousands of dancers and artists in the city’s streets, have been promoted and recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. This celebration of Andean traditions allows La Paz to highlight its unique cultural identity, attracting cultural tourism and instilling local pride.


3. Focus on Adventure and Nature Tourism: Leveraging its natural surroundings, La Paz has promoted its image as an adventure tourism destination, with activities like biking down the Death Road, trekking in the Andes, and visiting the Moon Valley, an impressive landscape known for its rock formations. This strategy has positioned La Paz as an ideal place for travelers seeking outdoor experiences and a connection with nature, complementing its cultural offerings.


4. Improvements in Infrastructure and Public Spaces: La Paz has undertaken improvements in its infrastructure and public spaces, including the revitalization of plazas, parks, and markets, as well as the development of recreational areas along the Choqueyapu River. Additionally, the construction of cultural centers and museums has enriched the urban landscape, providing spaces for learning and gathering for both visitors and residents. These improvements contribute to a more organized and welcoming image of the city, making it a more livable and attractive place.



La Paz’s Emerging Global Image

Today, La Paz presents itself to the world as a dynamic city where modernity blends with tradition, proudly honoring its indigenous roots while adopting innovative solutions to enhance residents’ quality of life. Its cable car system, active cultural life, and focus on adventure tourism have helped La Paz position itself as a unique destination in Latin America. The city has earned recognition in international tourism rankings, attracting both adventurers and those interested in culture and history.

The Path Forward: Sustainability and Inclusion

La Paz still faces significant challenges, especially in sustainable urban growth and social equity. However, the focus on sustainable infrastructure and efforts to include historically marginalized communities demonstrate a commitment to an inclusive and equitable future. Local leaders envision La Paz as a city respectful of the environment, with more green infrastructure and sustainable development policies.

Conclusion

La Paz has successfully shifted from an administrative capital facing infrastructure limitations and inequality to an innovative, culturally rich city full of tourism possibilities. By highlighting its cable car system, Andean heritage, and remarkable natural scenery, La Paz shows that a city can transform and redefine its identity through a mix of urban projects, cultural appreciation, and a focus on sustainability. This transformation has allowed La Paz to project a new image to the world: one of a resilient, vibrant city proud of its roots, looking toward a future of inclusive and sustainable growth


SANTIAGO

During the first half of the 19th century, the country's cities, and Santiago in particular, did not undergo major changes with respect to their colonial appearance and layout. As the bourgeois political and economic system was consolidated in the second half of the century, the oligarchy approached the urban issue by comparing itself with European cities and interpreted the matter as a problem of material and cultural backwardness and the absence of a modernizing project in the face of the colonial heritage.

For the elite, it was urgent to modify the physiognomy of Santiago, the capital that was to be the example to be followed by the rest of the country's cities. Their intention was to turn it into a city full of squares and parks, wide and passable streets that would shorten circulation times, a clean space, without environmental or visual pollution, easy to access and where it was possible to control the population. In short, an oligarchic-bourgeois city with all the comforts to govern, trade and produce.

This modernizing vision was economically favored by the silver and copper mining cycles that contributed enormous resources to the fiscal coffers and to business fortunes, resources that were later invested in improving the infrastructure of the capital. Added to this was the migration of foreign businessmen and merchants who helped to strengthen the process of economic growth. Latin American capitals - including Santiago - "took advantage of the country's wealth, and generally modified their appearance; and not only because they were supposed to give the image of a prosperous country, but because they were home to the great intermediaries, the bankers, the exporters, the financiers, the stock market magnates" (Romero, Luis Alberto. La ciudad occidental. Culturas urbanas en Europa y América. Buenos Aires: Editorial Siglo XXI, 2009, p. 241).

In this sense, the first to take the initiative regarding a radical transformation of the city of Santiago was Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna (1831-1886), who as mayor planned various changes inspired by the European capitals he visited during his travels. Among his reforms was the construction of the Santa Lucía Hill promenade and the Camino de Cintura that delimited the center of the city, in addition to the creation of new plazas, the channeling of part of the Mapocho River, the extension of public lighting and drinking water, along with a major reform of transportation and security (Vicuña Mackenna, Benjamín. "The transformation of Santiago: notes and indications respectfully submitted to the Illustrious Municipality, the Supreme Government and the National Congress". Santiago: Printing press of the Mercurio bookstore, 1872). Despite his efforts, Vicuña Mackenna's project remained unfinished, because he pursued a political career as a presidential candidate and because economic conditions did not allow him to carry out all the planned work, which was further delayed by the national and global economic crisis that continued until 1880.

In the last decades of the 19th century, business and tax revenues from the development of the saltpeter industry, agriculture and coal mining allowed the city's reforming transition to continue. This was reflected in the appearance of new neighborhoods, the construction of public buildings - particularly during the celebrations of the centennial of the republic - and the construction of large houses and palaces for the local elite. The development of commerce allowed the appearance of stores that sold products from Europe and other parts of the world. The demand for manufactured products for the country's consumption helped the construction of factories in the urban environment, which required a high demand for labor. The construction of the urban railway, following the Camino de Cintura, was fundamental during this process of marginalization and creation of boundaries between the two cities that were being developed.

In 1929, the engineer and architect Carlos Carvajal identified in one of his texts the six historical projects for the transformation of Santiago that were attempted to be developed from 1870 to 1915, among which the one by Vicuña Mackenna, the initiative of the mayor Ismael Valdés Vergara (1853-1916) and the project created by a Senate commission in 1912 stood out. As the city centre became a civic and upper-class space, the middle and lower classes were gradually pushed towards the northwest and southwest outskirts of the city, which produced the appearance of the first marginal neighborhoods.





Santiago’s Past Image

Historically, Santiago has been viewed through the lens of its political and economic challenges. The city was significantly impacted by the military coup of 1973, which led to years of dictatorship, repression, and social upheaval. For many years, its international image was that of a city grappling with inequality, political instability, and limited infrastructure. Although it boasted a rich cultural heritage, its struggles with poverty, pollution, and urban sprawl overshadowed its potential, leading many to see it primarily as a city to navigate rather than to embrace.

The Pursuit of a New Image

In the 21st century, Santiago has actively pursued a new image that reflects its growth and modernization. This has involved significant investments in infrastructure, public spaces, and cultural initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents and enhancing its appeal to the international community. The city has set out to position itself as a hub for innovation, culture, and sustainability.

Key Projects and Transformation Strategies

1. Urban Development and Infrastructure Improvements: Santiago has invested heavily in urban infrastructure, including the expansion of its public transportation system, most notably the Metro. The Santiago Metro is one of the most extensive in South America, providing efficient transport that reduces traffic congestion and pollution. Additionally, the city has developed pedestrian-friendly spaces and cycling paths, enhancing mobility and making Santiago more livable.


2. Revitalization of Public Spaces: Efforts to revitalize public spaces have been a central focus in Santiago's transformation. Projects such as the restoration of parks and plazas have not only improved the aesthetic appeal of the city but have also fostered community engagement. Notable examples include the Parque Forestal and the revitalization of the Mapocho River, which has transformed previously neglected areas into vibrant urban parks, enhancing the quality of life for residents and attracting visitors.


3. Cultural Initiatives and Festivals: Santiago has worked to promote its cultural scene, with initiatives aimed at celebrating its rich history and diverse communities. Events like the Santiago a Mil theater festival and the international film festival showcase local talent and bring international artists to the city. The establishment of cultural institutions, such as the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, has helped foster a collective memory of the past while promoting dialogue and understanding among its citizens.


4. Focus on Sustainability: In recent years, Santiago has embraced sustainability as a core component of its development strategy. The city has implemented initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy, and enhance green spaces. The goal is to create a more environmentally friendly urban environment that prioritizes the well-being of its residents while addressing the challenges of climate change.



Santiago’s Emerging Global Image

Today, Santiago is increasingly recognized as a modern and dynamic city that blends tradition with innovation. It is viewed as a hub for technology and startups, attracting both national and international talent. The city’s cultural richness, coupled with its improved infrastructure and commitment to sustainability, has positioned Santiago as a desirable destination for tourists, expatriates, and investors alike.

The Path Forward: Inclusivity and Resilience

Despite its advancements, Santiago still faces challenges related to social inequality and access to services. The social movements that gained momentum in 2019 highlighted the need for greater equity and inclusion in urban planning and development. As Santiago continues to grow, it must focus on addressing these issues to ensure that its transformation benefits all residents, particularly those from marginalized communities.

Conclusion

Santiago has successfully redefined its image from a city associated with political strife and urban challenges to one that is vibrant, modern, and culturally rich. Through strategic investments in infrastructure, public spaces, cultural initiatives, and sustainability, Santiago is positioning itself as a leading metropolis in Latin America. This transformation reflects not only the resilience of its citizens but also their aspirations for a more inclusive and equitable future, allowing Santiago to project a new image of a city that embraces change while honoring its heritage


Me gustaría hacer un artículo sobre imágenes de ciudades. Es decir, cómo las capitales y otras grandes ciudades están intentando redefinirse o reinventarse con una nueva imagen. Por ejemplo, ¿cuál era la imagen de Medellín hace 20 años y cuál es la imagen que la ciudad está creando para el mundo ahora? ¿Y coinciden los dos? ¿Cuál es la imagen que intenta proyectar Bogotá, La Paz y Santiago? Este artículo podría llamarse ciudades reales e imaginadas. Cambiar el nombre de la metrópoli

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