“Decay of Barranquilla’s Cultural Heritage: The Demolition of Alto Prado’s Architectural Gems”
Renowned businessman Diego Marulanda reminisces about the golden days of Barranquilla’s Alto Prado neighborhood, where single-story houses with lush gardens and strong trees once stood. The neighborhood, founded in the 1920s, was a vibrant hub of social life, where children played freely and important events like weddings and parties were celebrated in the simple yet elegant residences.
However, the charm of Alto Prado has faded over the years, as more than a hundred of these historic houses have been demolished since the 1980s, making way for modern buildings and establishments with names like The Closet and The Bronx. Only seven houses from the era spanning 1946 to 1965 remain today, scattered under the shade of old rubber trees on undulating streets.
Architectural experts like Diego Agamez lament the disregard for the works of local Barranquilla architects like Roberto Acosta and Ricardo González Ripoll, whose designs embodied the modern movement of the mid-century. Agamez’s research, recognized by the National University of Medellín, sheds light on the valuable contribution of these architects to the urban fabric of Barranquilla.
Heritage expert Alberto Escovar describes the demolition of Alto Prado’s architectural heritage as a dramatic loss, emphasizing the need to preserve other examples of mid-century modern architecture in Colombia. He highlights the importance of safeguarding these works to understand the design ethos and societal values of the time.
The disappearance of Alto Prado’s historic houses echoes a larger trend in Barranquilla, where traditional architecture is being replaced by generic buildings lacking in character. The loss of these cultural landmarks represents a profound shift in the city’s urban landscape, erasing traces of its past and architectural innovation.
As Barranquilla grapples with the challenges of urban development and heritage preservation, there is a growing recognition of the need to protect and celebrate its architectural legacy. The legacy of architects like Ricardo González Ripoll and the cultural richness of neighborhoods like Alto Prado must be cherished and safeguarded for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.