In March 2025 we began a Photovoice project in Sibaté, where disposable cameras were given to community members. For three months, they captured images of their surroundings and daily life. After development, the participants selected photos and collectively wrote stories about their community.
Authors: Isa, Kristopher & Stiven
In Sibaté, this project began in 1919 and was completed in 1937. Over time, its name took on a terrifying meaning due to the treatment patients received there. Sibaté came to be known nationwide as “the town of the insane.” Sadly, hundreds of people died and endured different forms of violence while confined in this place, until the torment came to an end in 2009 after reports of mistreatment of patients and administrative negligence.
Today, this architectural complex lies in deterioration and abandonment, its walls safeguarding lament and suffering. The stories told over the years by local residents and the families of those once confined here are heartbreaking. Nowadays, the site has become the focus of research not only by the nation but also by groups investigating paranormal phenomena.
At present, these walls—laden with negativity—still hold hope for some people.
There are projects being proposed to adapt this structure and transform it into something meaningful for the community and its surroundings. Among these plans is the dream of a public university that would bring prosperity and growth to Sibaté. However, corruption and a lack of political will have left this possibility as nothing more than a dream.
