Coltabaco

In 1936, Cali celebrated its 400th anniversary. A grand new building graced the cityscape, the Coltabaco building. This architectural gem, designed by Guillermo Garrido, became the headquarters of the Colombian Tobacco Company. The Coltabaco building stands as a testament to Cali’s rich history. It reflects the city’s Spanish colonial past with its Sevillian Renaissance style and Arabic influences. The original structure boasted three floors and a central tower. In 1950, a fourth floor was added. This altered the building’s proportions but thankfully preserved its unique decoration. Imagine the bustling activity within its walls, the scent of tobacco hanging in the air. The Coltabaco building wasn’t just a workplace. It was a symbol of Cali’s growing economic power. The building itself is a work of art. Reinforced concrete and lightened brick walls form its sturdy frame. Ornamental plaster, cement, and woodwork adorn its facade. Inside, chandeliers with bulb sprigs illuminate the space. A carved bronze mechanical clock keeps time. An Otis lift transports visitors between floors. These details speak to the craftsmanship and attention lavished on its construction. The Coltabaco building’s importance was officially recognized in 1969. It was declared a cultural asset. In 1993, it further gained recognition as an Architectural Urban Heritage site. For 80 years, it remained in private hands. Then, in 2016, the city of Cali reclaimed this historical treasure. The Coltabaco building returned to the people, a symbol of their shared heritage. Located near the Boulevard of River and across from La Ermita church in the historic center, the Coltabaco building stands proudly. It’s a reminder of Cali’s vibrant past and a promise of a culturally rich future. The Coltabaco building is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a story etched in stone and steel, a story of commerce, culture, and community.