Why Cartagena
Cartagena de Indias
Swaddling Colombia's northern coast and protected by ancient stone walls, the beautiful prehistoric port city of Cartagena is almost entirely surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. Founded in 1533, the eclectic, colorful city combines old world charm with modern, contemporary living.
In 1984, the walled city of Cartagena was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as an eminent example of military architecture. Cartagena is an unmissable place to visit and Colombia’s most popular city for tourists, thanks not only to the colonial buildings but also to the sandy beaches, mouth-watering cuisine, and raucous nightlife.
ARCHITECTURE
Most beautiful places to visit
Castle San Felipe de Barajas
The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (San Felipe de Barajas Castle) is a fortress in the city of Cartagena, Colombia. The castle was built in 1536 and is located on the Hill of San Lázaro in a strategic location, dominating approaches to the city by land or sea.
Address:
Barrio Pie del Cerro, Avenida Antonio de Arévalo. Carrera 17
What is is used for today
Despite being listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, the castle is not perfectly well preserved but it is still used today for social and cultural events offered by the Colombian government.
Clock Tower
The Puerta del Reloj, Torre del Reloj or Boca del Puente is the main city gate of the historic center of Cartagena de Indias, in Colombia and the original entrance of the fortified city. It is located between the squares Plaza de Independencia and Plaza de los Coches.
Address:
Boca del Puente, Centro, Cartagena de Indias
What is is used for today
This gate is one of the most successful works of the Spanish-American Fortification School and possibly one of the best preserved in the New World, as it strictly complies with the opinions of the Vauban school.
Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa
The convent, cloister and chapel of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de la Popa are located at the top of Mount la Popa, in Cartagena de Indias, in Colombia. It is also called Convento de Santa Cruz de la Popa.
Address:
Cl. 37, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena
What is is used for today
It dates back to 1607, when the original wooden chapel and palm of the Popa was erected. In February, the feast of the Virgen de la Candelaria de La Popa is celebrated and crowds of devotees make a pilgrimage on foot to the top of the hill of Popa.