Bogotá's Hidden Tunnels: A Journey Through History

Hidden Tunnels of Bogotá Reveal Secrets of the Bogotazo Beneath the bustling streets of Bogotá, Colombia, lie hidden tunnels that hold secrets from the city's past. A recent exploration by Noticias Caracol journalist uncovered a network of underground passages built around 1930, shedding light on their role during the tumultuous Bogotazo of 1948. The tunnels, located under Jiménez Avenue, a major thoroughfare in the city center, were initially used for various purposes. However, during the Bogotazo, a period of intense civil unrest following the assassination of Jorge Eliécer Gaitán, these tunnels took on a critical function. One section housed a clandestine radio station that broadcast vital information amidst the chaos. "These tunnels provided a vital communication lifeline during the Bogotazo," said a local historian interviewed in the video. "The radio station operating from within the tunnels was able to transmit news and updates even as the city above ground descended into violence." The video reveals the tunnels' intricate network, showing how they connected to other parts of the city. The exploration also unveils the remnants of the radio station, including old equipment and control panels, offering a tangible link to the past. The discovery serves as a reminder of Bogotá's rich history and the resilience of its people during times of crisis. The exploration of these hidden tunnels offers a fresh perspective on the Bogotazo, underscoring the importance of preserving historical sites and understanding the past.