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Debate Intensifies Over Future of El Helicoide in Venezuela

First article: 20 mar. 2026, 11:30 | Last update: 20 mar. 2026, 11:30 | 1 source | 2 articles

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Editorial Analysis

Based on 1 source, 2 articles

El Helicoide, a distinctive architectural structure in Caracas, Venezuela, has a dark history. Originally conceived as a futuristic shopping mall in the late 1950s, construction was never completed, and the building was eventually converted into a political prison during the 1980s. It became infamous for reports of torture and human rights abuses.

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NPR 20 mar. 2026, 11:30 (11 hours ago)

From mall to torture site: The debate over El Helicoide's future in Venezuela

Once a futuristic shopping mall, El Helicoide became one of Venezuela's most feared prisons. Now, as the country changes, so does its fate — erase it, rebuild it, or remember what happened inside.

Read on NPR →
NPR 20 mar. 2026, 11:30 (11 hours ago)

From mall to torture site: Venezuela debates El Helicoide prison's future

Once a futuristic shopping mall, El Helicoide became one of Venezuela's most feared prisons. Now, as the country changes, so does its fate — erase it, rebuild it, or remember what happened inside.

Read on NPR →