Medellin boasts a rich tradition of tango dancing, and three of the city’s oldest tango centers are still among the best places to learn the art and history of tango.
With the help of tangomedellin.co, we were able to find the three best locations in Medellin — two bars and a museum — that offer visitors an exquisite chance to connect with tango culture and brush up their tango skill regardless of their experience.
Homero Manzi
Homero Manzi, located in downtown Medellin, is an excellent place for any tango enthusiast to begin their tour of the city. Named for the famous Argentine tango lyricist, pictures of Argentina’s tango greats and lyrics from songs created by the bar’s namesake adorn the walls and will be the first thing any patron to this restaurant will see as they make their entrance.
Since its founding, Homero Manzi has become one of the best-known tango spots in Medellin. Javier Ocampo, the bar’s owner, has made it the venue for many tango workshops, conferences, lessons, movie screenings, and informative lectures, pouring his passion for the dance into this humble street corner.
Casa Gardeliana
Tango enthusiasts best know Medellin as the city in which tango king Carlos Gardel died in a plane crash in 1935, and while a picture of him can be found in almost every tango club in Medellin, the best place to learn about the great tango master is Casa Gardeliana.
The dual museum and cultural center opened in 1973 and dedicated to keeping Gardel’s memory alive by providing tango events for any who are interested.
Nestled high in the Manrique barrio on the eastern side of Medellin’s valley, visitors will ascend a series of criss-crossing stairways to view a collection documents, photo’s and objects from the life of Gardel.
A guestbook has been kept throughout the museum’s life and features signatures and comments from many modern tango greats.
Lessons are offered and a number of events occur at the museum, although visitors are advised to call the museum to confirm their hours.
Salon Malaga
For those seeking a real trip to the past, however, Salon Malaga, a cafeteria located right in the hustle and bustle of Medellin’s center, will immediately transport visitors back to the halcyon days of 1950’s Colombia.
While not dedicated solely to tango, Salon Malaga features an amazing collection of tangos, boleros, and almost any form of South American music popular when the restaurant was opened more than 50 years ago. The owner claims to have 7,000 vintage records in his possession.
Salon Malaga offers many tango events and daily classes that start from $5.50 for groups and $11 for individual lessons. The salon is open every day, Monday through Sunday regardless of national holidays.