Comuna 13, Medellín

Comuna 13 (n.º 13) or San Javier is one of the 16 communes of the city of Medellín, Colombia, with a population of around 160,000. The neighborhood is associated with street art performances, graffiti, bright colors, tours, and an energetic environment that showcases its resilience. Comuna 13 was not always a vibrant community, it has faced violence and insecurity with regards to drug trafficking, paramilitaries, and controversial military operations. It is now a major tourist attraction and a keystone of community tourism in Medellín and has benefitted from investment in infrastructure and social programs.