Where can you enjoy picturesque, tropical beaches and get lost in rich Spanish history? Try Cartagena in Colombia, an increasingly popular getaway for tourists.
Cartagena was the first Spanish colony on the American continent and was the site of a few great naval battles. The forts and city wall used for defensive measures more than 500 years ago are still remarkably intact, offering a unique look at the military architecture of the time.
World Heritage Site
The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is perhaps the most famous structure from this period, built in the mid-1500s. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive earthbound fort dominates approaches to the city by sea or land, making it an important strategic structure for the Spanish armada. Its stone walls survived the War of the Grand Alliance in the late 1600s, and it was attacked again in the Battle of Cartagena de Indias in 1741. The castle survived with admirable endurance, and tourists today can explore the corridors and towers.
Rich Religious Traditions
With their missionaries and monasteries, the Spanish were known for their religious fervor as much as they were known for being explorers. The Convento de la Popa (Convent of the Stern) lies at the highest point of the city about 1.2 miles from the Castillo and offers an incredible view of the surrounding area.
Another religious staple within the city limits is the Catedral de San Pedro Claver (Cathedral of San Pedro Claver). This remarkable building is named for Pedro Claver, a priest who baptized slaves as they arrived in the city, explaining to them that they deserved the same treatment as other Christian citizens. He was canonized in 1888. The saint’s remains lie in an illuminated glass coffin in the altar, and the cathedral has drawn visitors from all over the world, including Pope John Paul II.
Eerie Dungeons
While going through some of the town’s shops, you might not even realize you’re browsing in a former dungeon. Built in the late 1700s, Las Bovedas (The Vaults) were designed for storage but ended up being used as prison cells during civil wars in the 1800s. The unfortunate prisoners ended up with water-filled housing during high tide. Today, the thick walls house boutiques and other attractions.
Pampering Pastimes
After enjoying the terrestrial attractions, you can venture by boat to the beautiful Islas del Rosario (Coral Islands of Rosario), a Colombian national park that protects an important coral reef. The islands are about a 45-minute boat ride from the mainland, and the reef itself is home to many rare and important plants and animals.
Finish off a nice day around town by having an incredible time at Cafe Del Mar, a modern establishment located on the old city walls, complete with an authentic Spanish cannon pointing out to the ocean view. This popular hangout is a must-see for nightlife lovers and features a full bar. Although it’s a bit pricey compared to other locales, the ocean breeze, gorgeous views and hours-long celebration into the early morning are worth it.
Cartagena was the first Spanish colony on the American continent and was the site of a few great naval battles. The forts and city wall used for defensive measures more than 500 years ago are still remarkably intact, offering a unique look at the military architecture of the time.
World Heritage Site
The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is perhaps the most famous structure from this period, built in the mid-1500s. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive earthbound fort dominates approaches to the city by sea or land, making it an important strategic structure for the Spanish armada. Its stone walls survived the War of the Grand Alliance in the late 1600s, and it was attacked again in the Battle of Cartagena de Indias in 1741. The castle survived with admirable endurance, and tourists today can explore the corridors and towers.
Rich Religious Traditions
With their missionaries and monasteries, the Spanish were known for their religious fervor as much as they were known for being explorers. The Convento de la Popa (Convent of the Stern) lies at the highest point of the city about 1.2 miles from the Castillo and offers an incredible view of the surrounding area.
Another religious staple within the city limits is the Catedral de San Pedro Claver (Cathedral of San Pedro Claver). This remarkable building is named for Pedro Claver, a priest who baptized slaves as they arrived in the city, explaining to them that they deserved the same treatment as other Christian citizens. He was canonized in 1888. The saint’s remains lie in an illuminated glass coffin in the altar, and the cathedral has drawn visitors from all over the world, including Pope John Paul II.
Eerie Dungeons
While going through some of the town’s shops, you might not even realize you’re browsing in a former dungeon. Built in the late 1700s, Las Bovedas (The Vaults) were designed for storage but ended up being used as prison cells during civil wars in the 1800s. The unfortunate prisoners ended up with water-filled housing during high tide. Today, the thick walls house boutiques and other attractions.
Pampering Pastimes
After enjoying the terrestrial attractions, you can venture by boat to the beautiful Islas del Rosario (Coral Islands of Rosario), a Colombian national park that protects an important coral reef. The islands are about a 45-minute boat ride from the mainland, and the reef itself is home to many rare and important plants and animals.
Finish off a nice day around town by having an incredible time at Cafe Del Mar, a modern establishment located on the old city walls, complete with an authentic Spanish cannon pointing out to the ocean view. This popular hangout is a must-see for nightlife lovers and features a full bar. Although it’s a bit pricey compared to other locales, the ocean breeze, gorgeous views and hours-long celebration into the early morning are worth it.