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80 years /
Space and the City

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In the SURA Insurance podcast, we address the daily decisions that shape our lives.

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Space and City

SURA's history is deeply linked to Otrabanda, a key sector in the development of Medellín. In the 40s, this area went from being agricultural and industrial to an urban epicentre thanks to the channelling of the river and new infrastructure. Its main headquarters in Otrabanda reflects SURA's commitment to progress and urban integration, offering friendly and functional spaces for the city. Today, its presence extends throughout Latin America, standing out for its impact on each community.

1944 - 1959

1944 - 1959

SURA is established

Pillar of development in Medellín and expands its national presence.

In 1944, SURA was founded in Medellín, marking a commitment to local development. With the opening of the headquarters in Bogotá in 1947 and the acquisition of its own headquarters in Carabobo in 1950, the company showed its constant growth. By 1959, SURA had more than a thousand employees and branches in key cities such as Cali and Barranquilla.

Relive our moments

1944

The history of Suramericana is linked to the development of Medellín and the Otrabanda sector, the epicenter of industry and tradition.

1947

Suramericana's headquarters in Bogotá opened its doors in 1947, marking a milestone in our history of growth and service.

1950

Own headquarters located on the emblematic Carabobo road, a space that reflects our history and commitment.

1956

We opened our local agency in Anserma, strengthening our presence and commitment to the region.

1958

Suramericana de Capitalización opens branches in Barranquilla, Bogotá, Cali and Medellín, expanding its reach.

1959

We have more than a thousand employees, a testament to our growth and commitment to development.

1960 - 1979

Growing with vision

SURA promotes emblematic projects and strengthens its roots in Otrabanda and other regions.

During this period, SURA began construction of its headquarters in Otrabanda, standing out as a driving force of urban development. In 1971, the Suramericana neighborhood became a symbol of progress. In addition, the SURA Foundation was created in 1971 to promote social responsibility, consolidating a legacy that impacts communities.

Relive our moments

1960

The design of our headquarters in Otrabanda begins with a model that brings this ambitious project to life.

1964

After selling its headquarters in Carabobo, Suramericana acquired a large plot of land in western Medellín, in Otrabanda.

1971

Construction of the Suramericana neighborhood towers is progressing, a reflection of progress and urban development.

1971

We founded the Suramericana Foundation, now the SURA Foundation, to promote social responsibility initiatives.

1974

On July 11, 1974, La vida, a work by Rodrigo Arenas Betancourt commissioned by Suramericana, was inaugurated.

1980 - 1999

Internationalization and expansion:

With new headquarters and international expansion, SURA continued to lead projects that transformed communities and cities.

The 80s and 90s witnessed the internationalization of SURA with the acquisition of Interoceánica in Panama in 1997. During this period, Grupo SURA was also born, marking a strategic milestone. Among other achievements, the construction of the pedestrian bridge on Avenida Colombia stands out, improving mobility in Medellín.

Relive our moments

1989

Construction of the fourth floor at SURA headquarters, expanding our spaces to continue growing together.

1989

Installation of the façade at the SURA office, another step in the construction of spaces that inspire confidence.

1991

Protección, our pension fund manager, is born to build a future of well-being together.

1997

We entered international markets by acquiring the majority of Interoceánica in Panama, strengthening our presence.

1997

Grupo SURA was created by separating the insurance activity from the investment portfolio, marking a strategic milestone.

1998

Construction of the pedestrian bridge on Colombia Avenue, a contribution to urban connectivity and mobility.

GRUPO SURA a holding company

Our company has many years of experience in the stock market and has invested in insurance, financial services, social security, pensions, cement, food and energy.

2000 - 2014

Global leadership:

SURA strengthens its international presence and enhances its role in key markets.

During this period, SURA expanded its global reach with acquisitions such as Proseguros in the Dominican Republic in 2011 and strengthened its presence with strategic alliances such as Munich Re. In addition, it consolidated its position as the leader in the Colombian market, adapting to new trends in the insurance sector.

Relive our moments

2001

Munich Re joins as a shareholder, strengthening our global reach and market confidence.

2005

Conavi and Confisura join Bancolombia, consolidating a universal banking group and establishing key leadership.

2006

We have established ourselves as leaders in the Colombian market, being first in the hearts of our policyholders.

2008

We form alliances that bring us closer to our mission, together we achieve more effective and sustainable results.

2011

Fulfilling our purpose drives us: we acquired Proseguros in the Dominican Republic, now Seguros SURA Dominican Republic.

Celebration event in the Dominican Republic

Relive with us the best moments of our 10-year celebration event of Seguros SURA in the Dominican Republic in 2023, with the attendance of advisors, clients and other related parties.

2015 - 2024

Innovation and sustainability:

SURA promotes projects that transform lives and strengthen their vision for the future.

Over the past decade, SURA has strengthened its commitment to sustainability and innovation. SURA Re Ltda. was founded in 2015, and VaxThera was launched in 2021, a key project for the region's health sovereignty. These advances highlight its ability to adapt and respond to global challenges.

Relive our moments

2015

We evolved to add value: we created SURA Re Ltda, a subsidiary in Bermuda, focused on risks, trends and capital."

2016

A success story in the stock market: we issued ordinary bonds for $1 billion pesos.

2018

We expanded our presence to insure more people: we completed the acquisition of Seguros de Vida SURA México.

2021

We are driving the birth of VaxThera, promoting health sovereignty in Latin America with a vaccine against COVID-19.

VaxThera opens its headquarters

Its vaccine and biological research headquarters in Medellín is a milestone for the company and confirms its commitment to creating infrastructure and knowledge capabilities in research, development and innovation in the country.