He cut a deal with Colombia to be imprisoned, but in a luxurious prison he built and named "La Catedral" — the cathedral.

In 1991, Escobar was incarcerated in his self-designed prison he named "La Catedral." In the terms of his agreement with the Colombian government, Escobar was allowed to select who was imprisoned with him and who worked in the prison. He could also continue to run his cartel business and receive visitors.

La Catedral was equipped with a soccer field, barbecue pit, and patios and it was nearby another compound he built for his family. Also, the Colombian authorities were not allowed within 3 miles of his prison.