Parque Explora – Medellín

By The Colombian Way

A 21st Century landmark bringing interactive learning opportunities to modern Medellín.

What is Parque Explora?

Opened in 2008, Parque Exlora is Medellín’s own interactive science museum and aquarium. Parque Explora was conceived within the context of former city mayor Sergio Fajardo’s innovative plans for social inclusion and learning opportunities, the park compliments other socially progressive initiatives such as the MetroCable and library parks.

Better described as an interactive science museum than a park, Explora contains over 300 interactive exhibits, outdoor exhibition space in its landscaped surroundings, an aquarium, a terrarium, a 3D movie auditorium, restaurants and even its own television studio.

The interactive exhibits are particularly popular with children making Parque Explora a popular attraction for families.

Parque Explora’s Aquarium

Explora boasts South America’s largest fresh water aquarium, 4000 aquatic animals housed in 25 tanks over 3 floors. This includes 400 Colombian species with a particular focus on aquatic life from the Amazonas region.

Architecture

Colombian architect Alejandro Echeverri designed the museum based around 4 red coloured cuboid forms. Their juxtaposition at a slight offset to each other gives the impression that the whole museum articulates and snakes through its own plot.

There is a mid-level external walkway and hard-scaped grounds that play host to other displays and interactive exhibits.

The use of industrial forms, exposed concrete, tubular steel supports, corrugated cladding, attention to detail of fittings, and perfect proportions all respectfully borrow from structural expressionism whilst adding a functional yet stylish Colombian twist.

Parque Explora has rightfully earned its status as one of Medellín’s modern landmarks.

Visiting Parque Explora

Parque Explora is located adjacent to Estación Universidad on the Medellín Metro. We can also incorporate a visit into a Medellín city tour.