
Ever wondered why your search for the best architecture fails to uncover truly iconic buildings? You’re not alone—many architecture enthusiasts struggle with finding the perfect blend of history and modernity. But guess what? You’re the hero here, ready to discover Colombia’s most iconic structures with their intricate architectural details.
As a guide with expertise in Colombian architecture, I understand your desire for an enriching experience. In this article, we’ll explore a step-by-step plan to uncover the 15 most iconic buildings in Colombia:
- Historic landmarks
- Modern skyscrapers
- Unique structures
Ready to uncover Colombia’s architectural gems? Keep reading to discover the transformation that awaits your perspective on this fascinating country’s architectural landscape.
Historic Tall Buildings
1. Bavaria Building

The Bavaria Building, located in the center of Bogotá, was built in 1946 and stands 96 meters tall. Designed by German architect Franz Korn, it was one of the city’s tallest buildings when completed. The building is known for its Art Deco style and has a distinctive tower with a spire on top. Today, it is considered a historic landmark and houses various businesses and offices.
2. Edificio del Banco de Bogotá

The Edificio del Banco de Bogotá, also called the Banco de la República, is a historic building in the La Candelaria neighborhood of Bogotá. Built in 1959, it is 87 meters tall. Designed by Colombian architect Ernesto Rivas, the building features a neoclassical style. It was originally the headquarters of the Banco de Bogotá and now houses the Banco de la República’s Gold Museum.
See Also: Tallest Buildings in Greece
Modern Skyscrapers

Colombia’s modern skyline is dominated by towering skyscrapers that are proof of the country’s economic growth and development. The ranking of these skyscrapers is based on a standard height measurement that includes architectural features but excludes antenna masts. Here are two of the most iconic modern skyscrapers in Colombia:
3. BD Bacatá

The BD Bacatá is the new current tallest building in Colombia, standing at a height of 216 meters (709 ft). Located in Bogotá, this cutting-edge skyscraper is a crowdfunded marvel financed by 3,800 private investors. Designed by Groupo Alonso Balaguer, it houses offices, retail spaces, apartments, and a hotel. The observation deck offers stunning views of the city, making it a popular tourist attraction.
4. Hotel Estelar

The Hotel Estelar is a modern skyscraper located in Cartagena. Standing at a height of 202 meters, it is one of the tallest buildings in Colombia. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including a rooftop pool and bar with panoramic views of the city. It is a popular destination for business travelers and tourists alike.

Residential Buildings
5. Mirage 57
Mirage 57 is a luxury residential tower located in Barranquilla. It stands at a height of 162 meters. Completed in 2016, the tower has 43 floors. The building’s design includes a modern shape, and gives residents stunning views of the city.
6. Palmetto Elliptic

Palmetto Elliptic is a residential skyscraper located in Cartagena. The tower stands at a height of 156 meters and has 41 floors. It was completed in 2011 and has 175 apartments. The building’s elliptical shape and glass facade make it a striking addition to the city’s skyline.
7. Grattacielo Building

The Grattacielo Building is a residential tower located in the city of Barranquilla. It stands at a height of 153 meters and has 39 floors. Completed in 2014, the tower has 264 apartments. The building’s modern design and glass facade make it a standout in the city’s skyline.
See Also: Tallest Buildings in Sweden
Commercial and Office Buildings
8. Torre Colpatria

Torre Colpatria is a 50-story skyscraper located in Bogotá. It was completed in 1979 and held the title of the tallest building in Colombia until 2015 when it was surpassed by BD Bacatá, the current tallest building in Bogotá. The building stands 196 meters (643 feet) tall and is primarily used for office space. It is named after the Colombian bank, Colpatria, which has its headquarters in the building. The tower is a popular tourist attraction and has an observation deck on the 49th floor that offers panoramic views of the city.
9. Centro de Comercio Internacional

Centro de Comercio Internacional is a 50-story skyscraper located in the financial district of Bogotá. It was completed in 1977 and stands at 190 meters (623 feet) tall. The building is primarily used for office space and is home to many international companies. It is also known as the “Banco de la República Tower” due to the presence of the Banco de la República on the lower floors. The tower has a unique design with a triangular shape and a distinctive crown on the top.
10. Torre E

Torre E is a 58-story skyscraper located in Bogotá. It was completed in 2017 and stands at 184 meters (604 feet) tall. The building is primarily used for office space and is home to many local and international companies. It is also known as the “OHL Tower” due to the presence of OHL, the Spanish construction company, on the lower floors. The tower has a modern design with a glass façade and a distinctive shape that resembles a sail.

Mixed-Use Buildings

Colombia skyscrapers are a growing trend, with many developers seeking to create spaces that combine residential, commercial, and cultural elements. These buildings offer a range of amenities and services in one convenient location, making them ideal for people who want to live, work, and play in the same area. In this section, we will explore two of the most iconic mixed-use buildings in Colombia.
11. Museo Parque Central

Museo Parque Central is a mixed-use development located in Bogotá. The project consists of two towers that have the same name but were inaugurated several years apart and have different heights. The first was completed in 2009, has 26 floors, and is 92 meters high, The second tower was completed in 2017, has 44 floors, and is 185 meters high. It offers residents, workers, and visitors a range of amenities and services, making it a dynamic destination in Bogotá.
12. Ciudadela San Martín

Ciudadela San Martín is a large residential and commercial complex in Bogotá, Colombia. Completed in 1983, it consists of several tall buildings that house apartments, offices, and shops. The tallest building stands at 171 meters height. The complex is located in the bustling Chapinero neighborhood, making it a popular spot for both living and working. Known for its modern design and convenient location, Ciudadela San Martín is a significant landmark in the city, offering a mix of urban living and business spaces.
Iconic and Unique Structures
13. Cali Tower

Cali Tower, also known as Torre de Cali, is a 44-story skyscraper in Cali, Colombia. Completed in 1980, it is the tallest building in Cali, standing at 183 meters (600 feet). The tower is made of strong concrete to withstand earthquakes and high winds. It houses offices, apartments, and a hotel. The hotel on the top floor offers amazing views of the city, and there’s a restaurant on the 42nd floor where visitors can enjoy a meal while overlooking Cali. As one of the tallest buildings in South America, Cali Tower holds significant prominence in the region.
14. Coltejer Building

The Coltejer Building, or Edificio Coltejer, is a 36-story skyscraper in Medellín, Colombia. Completed in 1972, it is the tallest building in the city, standing 175 meters (574 feet) tall. Designed by architect Raúl Fajardo, its shape represents a sewing needle, symbolizing the Coltejer textile company. The building is made of reinforced concrete and is an important symbol of Medellín’s economic growth. It houses offices and shops.

Future Projects
15. Atrio South Tower

The Atrio South Tower is an exciting future project in Bogotá, Colombia, and is set to become the tallest building in the country and one of the tallest buildings in Latin America. It will have two towers, with the taller one reaching 268 meters (67 stories). The project will include luxury apartments, a hotel, offices, and shops. It will also have a public observation deck with great views of the city. The tower is being developed by the Spanish company Mutua Madrileña and is expected to be completed soon.
See Also: Famous Buildings in Colombia
Tallest Buildings in Colombia: A Recap

Colombia’s architecture is a blend of history and modernity, with buildings that reflect the country’s rich culture and growth. From historic landmarks like the Coltejer Building in Medellín to modern skyscrapers like BD Bacatá in Bogotá, these structures show Colombia’s progress and diversity.
Colombia ranks its tallest buildings based on height, with skyscrapers like BD Bacatá and Torre Colpatria standing at least 150 meters tall. As new projects like the Atrio South Tower rise, Colombia’s skyline continues to evolve, making it a fascinating place for anyone interested in architecture and the country’s development.
FAQ
The BD Bacatá is the tallest building in Colombia, standing at a height of 216 meters (709 ft). Located in Bogotá, this cutting-edge skyscraper is a crowdfunded marvel financed by 3,800 private investors.
The Coltejer Building, or Edificio Coltejer, is a 36-story skyscraper in Medellín, Colombia. Completed in 1972, it tallest building in the city, standing 175 meters (574 feet) tall.