Filandia officials reconsider demolition of landmarks after earthquake

Authorities in Filandia, Quindío, are evaluating the fate of two major cultural and tourist landmarks, the Colina Iluminada Lookout and the Casa del Artesano, following an earthquake on August 10.

Initial engineering assessments suggested that both structures might require demolition due to structural damage and non-compliance with modern seismic standards. Mayor Duberney Pareja Giraldo noted that the Casa del Artesano is an older building that poses a risk if maintained in its current state.

However, following a meeting between the mayor, the president of the Municipal Council, and the Quindío Secretary of Culture, the decision has been paused. Officials intend to conduct more in-depth studies to explore repair alternatives before a final resolution is signed. While the sites remain closed to the public, the municipality is seeking national government resources to assist with potential reconstruction or intervention efforts.