4 souvenirs to buy in Medellín, the City of eternal spring and happiness

When people think of Medellín, they might imagine Pablo Escobar, the drug lord made infamous by the Medellín Cartel. Because of this, the city has long been associated with danger. However, in recent years, public safety has improved dramatically, and the drug kingpin—who died in 1993—has even become a souvenir icon. Here are some recommended souvenirs from Medellín, the city of eternal spring and happiness.

Botero Figurines with Plump Motifs

A must-buy souvenir in Medellín is a replica of the works of Colombia’s famous painter and sculptor, Fernando Botero.

Botero is known for his paintings and sculptures of plump people and animals. There are museums dedicated to him in Bogotá and Medellín, and his exhibitions are held worldwide. In the center of Medellín, there is even a park lined with his endearing black sculptures of chubby figures and animals. Replicas of these sculptures are commonly found in souvenir shops and are popular as quirky ornaments.

Stylish Dresses and Cosmetics

Medellín has long been a hub of the textile industry. Shoppers from all over Colombia come to buy affordable clothing—but not just for the prices. Colombians, both men and women, are known for their fashion sense. The city is considered a fashion capital in Latin America, and the international fair “Colombia Moda,” held annually in Medellín, attracts visitors from around the world.

The city is also home to many cosmetics manufacturers, whose products are exported to neighboring countries to enhance women’s beauty. Shopping malls in Medellín are filled with cosmetic stores—so why not discover the secret behind Colombian women’s beauty?

T-shirts of Colombia’s Godfather, Pablo Escobar

Pablo Escobar, the drug lord of the Medellín Cartel, has become a pop-culture figure. TV dramas and movies about him are popular throughout Latin America, the film Escobar: Paradise Lost was screened. In Medellín, you can join tours that visit his bombed mansion (attacked by the rival Cali Cartel), the hideout where he was killed by police and the army in 1993, and his gravesite.

At the peak of his power in 1975, Escobar was the world’s seventh-richest man. He owned mansions, luxury cars, and private jets—but he also spent his wealth on building schools, hospitals, and churches for the poor, which earned him deep admiration among impoverished locals. Even today, his grave attracts a steady stream of visitors.

T-shirts printed with Escobar’s face are sold at street kiosks and have become popular souvenirs for tourists from the U.S. and Europe.

Gold Filigree Accessories

Colombia is rich in gold and emeralds. The legend of El Dorado (the City of Gold) originated near Bogotá, inspired by stories from the Age of Exploration about a tribal chief who covered his body in gold dust during rituals. Today, most of the country’s gold mines are located in Antioquia Department, where Medellín sits. Although gold itself isn’t cheaper near its source, ancient-style gold accessories inspired by indigenous designs make for beautiful, authentically Colombian souvenirs—especially if you have room in your budget!

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Like Bogotá, the Medellín region enjoys an eternal spring climate, with flowers blooming year-round. The city’s annual Flower Festival is a major attraction, and Medellín is also famous for its beautiful women—not the cold kind of beauty, but one radiating warmth and kindness, perhaps thanks to the pleasant climate. Why not shop at one of the city’s malls for the same items that once captivated even the notorious drug lord himself?

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4 souvenirs to buy in Medellín, the City of eternal spring and happiness