That impressive structure before you is Unicentro Cali. Built in 1980 it’s more than just a shopping mall.
Unicentro Cali wasn’t built on empty land. It replaced the old Ingenio Melendez sugar factory. Think about it bustling factory replaced by a bustling mall. Quite a transformation.
The original Unicentro Cali opened its doors in 1980. It was a bold project. Pedro Gomez y Cia a prominent Colombian developer had a vision. He wanted to create a mini-city a vibrant hub for the south of Cali. The vision was to create something similar to the successful Unicentro in Bogota.
The mall’s design wasn’t just about commerce. It blended seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment. This was a smart move. People loved it. The blend of shopping and nature was refreshing.
Years later in 2007 a new wing opened the Edificio Oasis. This addition showcased bioclimatic architecture. It’s a design that reduces the building’s environmental impact. It also keeps the interior cooler. The Oasis building even won a prestigious World Design Award. How cool is that?
Unicentro Cali underwent major renovations starting in 2011. The goal was to improve the visitor experience. The renovations incorporated more green spaces. They even designed pathways that weaved through existing trees. The mall’s commitment to sustainability is impressive.
By 2014 the renovations were complete. More than 100000 people visit Unicentro Cali daily. This shows how vital it is to the community.
Unicentro Cali keeps evolving. There are plans for a new theatre. This will serve both the local community and the wider city. It reflects the ongoing development and evolution of the mall itself.
Today Unicentro Cali boasts over 546 stores and 291 offices. It also houses a Cine Colombia movie theatre and a casino. This shows how much the mall has expanded over the years. The number of shops restaurants and entertainment options is massive.
Unicentro Cali is more than just shops. It’s a place to meet friends and family. It is a symbol of Cali itself. It’s a place where memories are made. This is the heart of Cali’s southern area.