¡Un nuevo amor!
It’s a beautiful Sunday in Bogotá. My girlfriend picks me up from the hotel and suggests visiting San Felipe. Today, there’s an event called “Open San Felipe,” where numerous galleries open their doors to visitors.
I had never heard of San Felipe, despite having been to Bogotá twice and reading extensively about the city. This was clearly an insider tip! I quickly looked it up and was surprised by what I found. San Felipe, located between Calles 72 and 80, has transformed over the past decade into a vibrant hub for modern art. Its architecture blends characteristic English-style buildings with the unique charm of old warehouses. Here, Bogotá’s art scene gathers, surrounded by numerous galleries, bars, and restaurants.
We step out of the taxi at Parque La Araña in San Felipe and immediately feel the neighborhood’s charm. It’s not just the sweet scent in the air but the entire atmosphere that sets it apart. The people in the park and on the streets are lively yet relaxed. Creativity pulses through this district. We hear great music and follow yellow flags that guide us to the galleries.
By the end of the day, I’ve lost count of how many galleries we visited. It was an extraordinary and inspiring experience, with each gallery offering something unique—from avant-garde works to immersive installations. DJs set the mood in many spaces, while the streets buzzed with live music and special performances. A highlight was “El Infernio,” an immersive punk world. Just as we stepped inside, Nena’s 99 Luftballons played over the speakers—I had to laugh. Sometimes, the world feels so small.
In the following weeks, we returned to the neighborhood several times. Besides “Open San Felipe,” there’s also “Noche San Felipe,” and many galleries host special events. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to strike up a conversation with the artists wherever you go.
What started as an insider tip turned into an unforgettable experience. Galleries, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere made this Sunday extraordinary. From avant-garde art to punk-inspired surprises, every corner had something unique. Join me as I explore this creative haven!
