Bogota’s English-Style Houses Demolished, Raising Heritage Concerns
English-style houses that had been part of Bogota’s architectural landscape for decades finally disappeared last week, following years of controversy and legal disputes over their preservation. Located at the intersection of Carrera Septima and Calle 54, the buildings were demolished to make way for a new real estate development, in a case that once again […]
Bogota's English-style houses were demolished without explanation, sparking concerns about the preservation of Colombia's heritage. The five properties, built between 1939 and 1943, were located at the intersection of Carrera Septima and Calle 54 in the Chapinero neighborhood. One house was even recognized for its connection to the former Pan Fino bakery, which turned the property into a commercial landmark.
The dispute over the buildings' fate began before their heritage status was established. In November 2021, three of the five structures were declared cultural heritage assets. However, this protection was revoked in March 2024, allowing a permit for demolition to be granted in August of the same year. The revocation of the heritage designation paved the way for the demolition permit to be processed.
The buildings, which featured brick facades, pitched roofs, and grid-patterned windows, were part of Bogota's architectural identity. Their disappearance raises questions about the balance between development and heritage preservation.
Written by urgent.news from Colombia One's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
