This chapter discusses the emergence of a wide range of cultural societies brought by the advances in formal education achieved in Antioquia from the middle of the 19th century to the 1920s. It adds that these cultural societies were classified as literary circles and artistic and theatrical groups; public libraries; scientific and pedagogical societies; civic and moral associations; bands, ensembles, orchestras, and academies of música culta, ‘civilised music’; temperance societies; and social clubs. It defines the words culture and civilised and investigates Antioquian culture and civilisation. It assesses in detail the classifications of cultural societies. It clarifies that most cultural entities and associations were the result of individual initiatives. It explains that a vigorous cultural dynamism was demonstrated by the upsurge of voluntary associations in Antioquia.