The “Saberes Ancestrales” Educational Park, located in Vigía del Fuerte, Antioquia, has become an outstanding example of sustainable architecture that respects its surroundings, thanks to its innovative design and commitment to preserving ancestral culture.
Recently, this impressive architectural project, developed by Fraternidad Medellín and the Government of Antioquia in 2014, received the prestigious Salmona Award—an important cultural recognition granted annually to identify and showcase the best architectural practices in Latin American and Caribbean cities. The award highlights projects that create meaningful public spaces for community life and that contribute to building more inclusive cities with a strong sense of place.
El Parque Educativo Saberes Ancestrales, diseñado por los arquitectos Farhid Maya, Lucas Serna, Mauricio Valencia y Diana Herrera, fue un reto desde muchos puntos de vista. Inicialmente la comunidad estuvo incrédula por una nueva promesa que llegaba a hacer una nueva administración, con unos nuevos arquitectos, con nuevos planes. Luego siguieron los desafíos de diseño, el clima de la zona, el agua que hace presencia durante los doce meses del año. Jornadas de trabajo extenuantes durante un año y medio dieron como resultado un espacio maravilloso que busca preservar y difundir los saberes y tradiciones de las comunidades indígenas y afrodescendientes de la región. Su diseño se inspiró en la arquitectura tradicional de estas comunidades, utilizando materiales sostenibles y respetuosos con el entorno.
The Salmona Award is a recognition of excellence and innovation in Colombian architecture, and the “Saberes Ancestrales” Educational Park is a standout example of how architecture can serve as a tool to preserve culture and the environment. It is also a meaningful tribute not only to the team of architects and designers who worked on the project, but also to the Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities who have shared their knowledge and traditions, making this project possible.
The “Saberes Ancestrales” Educational Park is a space that invites reflection, learning, and connection with nature and culture. Its recognition with the Salmona Award is a testament to the importance of preserving our cultural and environmental heritage for future generations. An award to teamwork. A beautiful way of practicing Fraternidad.
