Colombia is home to a rich tapestry of native dance traditions, yet its love for tango runs exceptionally deep. This isn’t just a surface-level appreciation like that of American pop or Euro-dance—it’s a passionate connection rooted in history, culture, and even an eerie coincidence.

Medellín: The Tango Capital of Colombia

Medellín is considered Colombia’s tango capital, largely due to its connection with the legendary Carlos Gardel. In June 1935, Gardel tragically died in a plane crash at the Olaya Herrera Airport, after his aircraft collided with a flight arriving from Manizales—a twist of fate many find deeply ironic.

His legacy lives on at Casa Gardeliana, a museum on Avenida Gardel (La 45), which has been declared a heritage site. Visitors can explore Gardel’s impact on Medellín and the enduring influence of tango in Colombia.

🎶 Listen to Gardel’s Rendition of a Colombian Classic:
📌 “Mis Flores Negras” → Watch on YouTube
Originally a pasillo (a traditional Colombian folk rhythm), this song was written by Colombian poet Julio Flórez and recorded by Carlos Gardel in 1933.

Where to Experience Tango in Medellín

• Homero Manzi – A traditional corner bar with a lively atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the spirit of tango. (See cover photo!)
• Salón Málaga – One of Medellín’s most iconic tango venues, offering both live music and a dance floor.
• Patio del Tango – A must-visit for tango lovers, featuring live performances and dance events.

Colombia’s love affair with tango isn’t just about dance—it’s a cultural bond forged through history, music, and a shared appreciation for passion and nostalgia

For more information or to plan your own personalized Tango workshop and tour, contact us as coffeeaxistravel@gmail.com.

Tango in Manizales: A Living Legacy

Manizales, located in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Axis, is a city that lives and breathes tango. It is home to the world’s only “Calle del Tango” (Tango Street), a testament to its deep-rooted passion for the genre.

Locals still reminisce about Carlos Gardel’s tragic death and the many tango legends who visited or lived here. Unlike other places where tango has evolved, Manizales remains a stronghold of tradition—its tango bars are known for playing only the classic, original recordings, preserving the purity of the art form.

Mama Bertha: The Heart of Tango in Manizales

One of the most celebrated figures in Manizales’ tango history is Mama Bertha. As a child, she amazed her parents by teaching herself to dance tango, sparking a lifelong passion for Argentine rhythms.

Her love for classic tango played a crucial role in bringing many renowned orchestras and singers to Manizales. Her home became an informal hostel, welcoming performers who visited the City of Open Doors.

Among her closest friends was Argentine singer Armando Moreno, who lived with her for more than a decade. Throughout her lifetime, she helped establish businesses that promoted tango and created job opportunities in Manizales.

Her passing was a significant event, mourned by Colombians and Argentinians alike. Today, her ashes rest beside Armando Moreno’s in the crypt of the Catedral Basílica, overlooking the city’s main plaza.

Tango Nuevo and Colombia’s Strange Connection

Tango Nuevo represents the modern evolution of tango, pioneered by Astor Piazzolla—who had an unexpected connection to Carlos Gardel.

As a child, Piazzolla knew Gardel personally. In 1935, his father forbade him from joining Gardel’s Colombia tourdue to his young age. This decision ultimately saved his life, as Gardel’s tragic plane crash sealed tango’s fate and paved the way for its reinvention.

A lifelong composer and musician, Piazzolla’s influence peaked in the 1980s, when he became a mainstream figure in tango music. His groundbreaking style blended deep, melancholic tones with euphoric rhythms, breathing new life into the genre.

Purists may argue that classic tango remains unmatched, but Piazzolla’s music carries a unique, haunting beauty. One of his most powerful compositions, “Soledad,” stirs raw emotion—its somber depths, passionate intensity, and smooth finishes create an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned tango enthusiast or a newcomer eager to explore the dance, Colombia plays a vital role in tango history.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the tango scene at the many bars and dance halls of Medellín, the unofficial tango capital. In Manizales, you can dance on the world’s only Calle del Tango, surrounded by a city that lives and breathes the tradition. Meanwhile, Bogotá and Cali also boast dedicated tango communities, offering vibrant but lesser-known experiences compared to Medellín and Manizales.

For tango lovers, Colombia is more than just a destination—it’s a place where the rhythm of tango continues to thrive.

For more information or to learn more about Tango in Manizales, click here. Or, email us at coffeeaxistravel@gmail.com for more information.

We also offer specialized intensive workshops in cities like Medellin, Cali and Bogota!

Sources:

Colombia Me Gusta: https://www.colombiamegusta.com/tango-colombia-una-historia-dejo-huella/

https://www.eltiempo.com/cultura/musica-y-libros/muerte-de-carlos-gardel-en-medellin-234504

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astor_Piazzolla

https://www.lapatria.com/sabatina/los-tangueros-se-quedaron-huerfanos-14487