It all started as a way to vent. In the 1990s, Colombia was experiencing one of its most difficult waves of violence. Moreover, Camilo Cote was responsible, among other things, for managing his family’s companies during that time. He was into investment banking, law, and business management. His stress levels were so high, however, that he began to let out his frustrations striking irons as a hobby. Ironworking was his salvation and was to surprisingly become the most important aspect of his life.

What started as a thriving business of exporting metal wares to the United States —like sculptures with which to decorate hotel lobbies, for instance— gradually turned into what his workshop is today: an intimate space where alchemy takes place and men of fire vibrate following the four elements. These men are aware of what happens when their hammers strike: they carry pieces from father to son and bless their craft with the rhythm they follow like monks to the sound of bells.

His process of becoming a craftsman happened in reverse. Neither was his trade a tradition he inherited nor did he have a particular interest in its history. He, however, became an expert in both. It all started with his arrival in Bogotá’s Egipto neighborhood, whose streets used to be filled with craftspeople a long time ago. His workshop started expanding gradually. In time, he was able to acquire the nine houses that today make up Kabiros, his blacksmith brotherhood.

Aside from working on his academic studies, he has spent time tracing back colonial iconography. He has also researched the many uses that iron has had across history. We are reminded of our incredible past in all its opulence through old gossip windows, padlocks, false hinges, chatons —studs—, hinges, and knockers in the shape of bishops’ hands, devils, or gargoyles. Kabiros’ craftspeople also regard the iguana as a protector of the home’s good energy.

Although Camilo has been the brain behind the business, he has likewise succumbed to the mystique and profound meanings behind iron. He understood that he had to listen to it. And listen he did.