Is the valley where Medellín located really a valley or is it a canyon?

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To answer this question we have to first look at the definition of both terms.

A valley is defined as an elongate depression of the earth’s surface usually between ranges of hills or mountains, that is longer than it is wide. It can have a river flowing thorough it.

On the other hand, a canyon is a “ deep” narrow valley with “steep sides” and often with a river or stream flowing through it.

The city of Medellín is located in a steep valley with the Medellín River flowing through the center of it. It is one of the most populous valleys in Colombia and its Andean Region. Notice that the word steep is mentioned several times. This term is important when differentiating between a valley and canyon.

The city has a large number of homes and neighborhoods scattered and perched all over its slopes. There seems to be more homes located on the inclines than on the flat bottom of the valley which is bisected by the Medellín River.

José María Córdova International Airport is the second largest airport in Colombia in after El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá. It is located in the city of Rionegro, at an altitude of around 7,000 feet and a 45 minute drive south-east from the city of Medellin.

The trip to or from the city’s airport requires a very steep climb or descent. When I visited Medellín for the first time I distinctly remember my first view of the city from high above as my taxi travelled down a winding mountain highway. The minute the city popped into view for the first time it resembled a sea off lego-like brick colored buildings which was mind boggling to me. The bird’s eye view was imposing with the city in the distance far below. It was almost like looking down on Medellín while traveling by airplane.

Whether Medellín in located in a valley or large canyon is debatable and really not that important but I find it an interesting topic to write about. The city has become one of the the most desirable expats havens because of its year-round spring-like climate, affordability, culture and friendly people.