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Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena—officially known as Cartagena de Indias—is a port city on the Caribbean coast, steeped in colonial history and bursting with cultural charm.

Founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena quickly became a key hub for trade and a strategic military outpost. Its historic walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, is a stunning maze of cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and centuries-old churches that transport visitors back in time.

The city’s most iconic landmark is the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a massive fortress perched on a hill that once defended the city from pirates and invaders. Within the old town, you’ll find the Church of San Pedro Claver, named after the Jesuit priest who ministered to enslaved Africans brought through Cartagena’s port. The city’s rich blend of African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences is evident in its music, cuisine, and festivals, making it one of Colombia’s most culturally diverse destinations.

Beyond its historical core, Cartagena offers a tropical escape with nearby islands like Barú and the Islas del Rosario, known for their white-sand beaches and coral reefs. The modern districts of Bocagrande and Manga provide a contrast to the old city, featuring high-rise hotels, shopping centers, and a lively nightlife scene. Whether you're sipping coffee in a shaded plaza, exploring colonial architecture, or dancing to champeta music, Cartagena offers a sensory feast that blends the past and present in unforgettable ways.

Statue Noli Me Tangere
The statue Noli Me Tangere, located along Avenida Calle 24 Real in the Camellón de los Mártires in Cartagena, is a powerful symbol of resistance and national pride.

  • Erected in 1911 to commemorate the centennial of Cartagena’s declaration of independence, the monument stands at the heart of this historic promenade, which connects the walled city to the Getsemaní neighborhood. The statue’s name, Latin for “Touch Me Not,” is a defiant message of sovereignty and a tribute to the city’s enduring spirit in the face of colonial oppression.
  • Crafted from white Carrara marble by Spanish sculptor Felipe Moratilla, the statue depicts a crowned female figure with her right hand raised in a gesture of warning or protection. At her side is the republican shield of Cartagena, reinforcing the monument’s patriotic message. The statue was donated by a group of Cartagena’s women, adding a layer of civic and feminine pride to its legacy. It serves as a visual anchor in the Camellón de los Mártires, a linear park that also features busts of the nine martyrs executed in 1816 for their role in the independence movement.
  • The Camellón itself is a place of reflection and remembrance, lined with marble benches, fountains, and trees that create a solemn yet inviting atmosphere. The Noli Me Tangere statue occupies a central position, inviting passersby to pause and consider the sacrifices made for freedom. It’s not just a monument—it’s a statement of Cartagena’s identity as “La Heroica,” the heroic city that stood firm against colonial rule.
  • Whether you're crossing from the Clock Tower to Getsemaní or simply enjoying the sunset over the Bahía de las Ánimas, the statue offers a poignant reminder of Cartagena’s revolutionary past.

Centennial Park (Parque del Centenario)
Parque del Centenario, or Centennial Park, is a green space nestled between Cartagena’s historic walled city and the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood.

  • Established in 1911 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Cartagena’s independence from Spanish rule, the park is both a historical landmark and a tranquil urban retreat. Designed by Pedro Malabet and built under the direction of Luis Felipe Jaspe Franco, it features neoclassical influences with symmetrical paths, fountains, and shaded walkways that invite leisurely strolls.
  • The park is home to several monuments and sculptures honoring Colombia’s independence heroes, including an obelisk and decorative gates adorned with symbolic figures. One of its most recognizable features is the Puerta del Reloj (Clock Gate), which serves as a gateway between the old city and the modern districts. The park’s lush landscaping, with palm trees and flowering plants, makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, people-watch, or escape the Caribbean heat.
  • Beyond its historical and aesthetic appeal, Parque del Centenario is also a lively cultural hub. It frequently hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and traditional dance performances, offering visitors a taste of Cartagena’s vibrant cultural life. Wildlife lovers might even spot iguanas and sloths lounging in the trees, adding a touch of the unexpected to this urban oasis.

Clock Tower Square (Plaza del Reloj)
Plaza del Reloj, or Clock Tower Square, is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in Cartagena.

  • It serves as the main entrance to the walled city, known as the "Centro Histórico," and is anchored by the striking Monumento Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower Monument). This gate, originally called "Puerta del Puente" (Bridge Gate), was constructed in the early 18th century and later crowned with a clock in 1888, giving it its current name.
  • The Clock Tower itself is a masterpiece of colonial military architecture, designed by Spanish engineer Juan de Herrera y Sotomayor. Its neoclassical façade features Tuscan columns and a Roman arch, blending defensive functionality with elegant design. Historically, the gate was protected by a drawbridge over the San Anastasio canal, which connected the fortified city to the Getsemaní neighborhood. This strategic setup helped defend Cartagena from pirate attacks and foreign invasions.
  • Today, Plaza del Reloj is a bustling hub where history meets modern life. The square is surrounded by vibrant colonial buildings, lively cafés, and street vendors selling everything from fresh fruit to handmade crafts. It’s a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists, often serving as the starting point for walking tours of the old city. The plaza also connects to Plaza de los Coches, once a slave market and now a lively area filled with horse-drawn carriages and local performers.
  • Whether you're admiring the architecture, soaking in the atmosphere, or using it as a gateway to explore Cartagena’s rich past, Plaza del Reloj is a must-visit destination.

Carriage Square (Plaza de los Coches)
The Plaza de los Coches is one of Cartagena’s most iconic and historically layered public squares, located just inside the Puerta del Reloj—the main gateway to the walled city.

  • Once known as the Plaza del Juez, Plaza de los Esclavos, and Plaza de los Mercaderes, this triangular plaza has served many roles over the centuries, from a slave market during the colonial era to a bustling commercial hub. Today, it’s a gathering place that blends Cartagena’s colonial past with its modern-day energy.
  • At the heart of the plaza stands a statue of Pedro de Heredia, the Spanish conquistador who founded Cartagena in 1533. Sculpted by Juan de Ávalos, the statue portrays Heredia in the style of a Roman magistrate, a deliberate choice to soften his controversial legacy as a brutal colonizer. The statue is surrounded by colorful colonial buildings with arcaded walkways, most notably the Portal de los Dulces, where vendors sell traditional Colombian sweets like cocadas and tamarind balls—a sensory delight for visitors.
  • The plaza’s name, “Plaza de los Coches” or “Square of the Carriages,” comes from its 19th-century use as a carriage stop, and even today, horse-drawn carriages line the square, offering romantic rides through the old city. The area is also a hub for street performers, musicians, and artisans, making it a lively introduction to Cartagena’s cultural scene. Its central location and proximity to landmarks like the Clock Tower and Plaza de la Aduana make it a natural starting point for exploring the historic center.
  • Despite its charm, the plaza also invites reflection on Cartagena’s complex history, particularly its role in the transatlantic slave trade. The juxtaposition of joyful street life with the memory of past injustices gives the space a layered emotional resonance. Whether you’re sampling sweets, admiring colonial architecture, or contemplating its deeper history, Plaza de los Coches is a microcosm of Cartagena itself—beautiful, vibrant, and steeped in stories.

Panorama of Customs Square (Plaza de la Aduana)
Plaza de la Aduana is the oldest and largest square in Cartagena’s historic center, steeped in colonial history and civic significance.

  • Originally known as Plaza del Mar due to its proximity to the city’s first port, it later became the administrative heart of colonial Cartagena. During the Spanish colonial era, the plaza was surrounded by key government buildings, including customs offices and the residence of the city’s founder, Pedro de Heredia.
  • The square has undergone several name changes over the centuries—Plaza Real, Plaza Colón, and Plaza Rafael Núñez—but locals have consistently referred to it as Plaza de la Aduana, a name that reflects its long-standing role in trade and governance. Today, the plaza is home to the Mayor’s Office of Cartagena and features a prominent statue of Christopher Columbus, donated in 1894 by Italian immigrant Juan Bautista Mainero to commemorate the anniversary of Columbus’s arrival in the Americas.
  • Architecturally, Plaza de la Aduana is a showcase of colonial elegance. The surrounding buildings, including the Casa del Marqués del Premio Real, exhibit well-preserved examples of Spanish colonial design. The plaza once featured a gallery of arches known as El Portal de los Moros, where early Muslim merchants established shops in the 17th century. These historical layers make the plaza not just a civic space, but a living museum of Cartagena’s multicultural past.
  • Today, Plaza de la Aduana remains a public space where locals and tourists gather to enjoy open-air events, admire the architecture, or simply relax in the Caribbean sun. Its central location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the walled city.

34th Street (Calle 34)
Calle 34 in Cartagena, is a centrally located street that weaves through the bustling district of La Matuna, just outside the historic walled city. It’s known for its accessibility and proximity to key landmarks such as the India Catalina monument and the vibrant Mercado de Bazurto. This area serves as a transitional zone between the colonial charm of the old city and the more modern, commercial parts of Cartagena, making Calle 34 a practical and well-trafficked thoroughfare for both locals and visitors.

  • One of the most notable establishments on Calle 34 is the Hotel Stil Cartagena, located at Calle 34 #11-15. This hotel is popular for its affordability, central location, and panoramic views of the city and bay. It’s especially convenient for travelers who want to be within walking distance of the old city while enjoying modern amenities. The area around the hotel is lively, with easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and shops.
  • Calle 34 also connects to several important bus routes, including R28, X104, and T102, making it a key artery for navigating Cartagena by public transit. The street itself is lined with a mix of residential buildings, small businesses, and local eateries, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of Cartageneros. While it may not have the colonial allure of Calle Don Sancho or Calle de la Iglesia, Calle 34 plays a vital role in the city’s urban fabric.
  • For those exploring beyond the tourist hotspots, Calle 34 offers a more grounded, authentic experience of Cartagena. It’s a great place to observe the rhythm of the city, interact with locals, and access services that cater to residents as much as to tourists.

Sanctuary of San Pedro Claver (Santuario de San Pedro Claver)
The Santuario de San Pedro Claver in Cartagena, is a deeply significant religious and historical site that honors the legacy of Saint Peter Claver, a Jesuit priest known for his tireless advocacy for enslaved Africans during the 17th century.

  • Located in the heart of the walled city, the sanctuary includes a grand 16th-century church and an adjoining museum housed in the former Jesuit college where Claver lived and worked. The church’s stone facade, built from materials quarried on nearby Tierrabomba Island, is a striking example of colonial architecture.
  • Saint Peter Claver arrived in Cartagena in 1610 and was ordained in 1616. At the time, Cartagena was one of the largest slave ports in the Americas. Claver devoted his life to ministering to the enslaved, often boarding ships to provide care and spiritual comfort to those who had endured the brutal transatlantic journey. He baptized and catechized thousands, earning him the title “Slave of the Slaves.” His remains are interred beneath the altar of the church, making it a pilgrimage site for those seeking to honor his humanitarian legacy.
  • The museum within the sanctuary complex offers a rich and moving experience. Visitors can explore exhibits on Afro-Caribbean history, colonial-era religious art, and the life and work of Claver himself. The tranquil cloisters and leafy courtyards provide a reflective space, while the well-preserved architecture tells its own story of resilience and faith. The museum also features a well where Claver is said to have baptized many of the enslaved people he served.
  • Today, the Santuario de San Pedro Claver continues to function as both a place of worship and a cultural institution. It hosts regular Masses, including special services in honor of its namesake, and remains a symbol of Cartagena’s complex history and enduring spirit of compassion.

San Pedro Street (Calle San Pedro)
Calle San Pedro, located in the heart of Cartagena’s historic center, is a charming and culturally rich street that winds through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It runs adjacent to the Plaza de San Pedro Claver and leads visitors past the magnificent Santuario de San Pedro Claver, a church and museum dedicated to the Jesuit priest known for his humanitarian work with enslaved Africans. The street is named in his honor and reflects the deep historical and spiritual significance of the area.

  • As you stroll along Calle San Pedro, you’re surrounded by beautifully preserved colonial architecture—balconies draped with bougainvillea, pastel-colored facades, and intricately carved wooden doors. The street is lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and cafés that spill out onto the cobblestones, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s a favorite route for walking tours, offering a sensory journey through Cartagena’s layered past and vibrant present.
  • Calle San Pedro also serves as a cultural corridor, often animated by street performers, local artisans, and musicians. Sculptures by Colombian artist Edgardo Carmona, made from recycled metal, add a contemporary artistic flair to the historic setting. These installations, along with the statue of San Pedro Claver in the nearby plaza, create a dialogue between past and present, faith and art, history and daily life.
  • Whether you’re heading to the nearby Plaza de la Aduana or simply soaking in the ambiance, Calle San Pedro is more than just a street—it’s a living museum and a testament to Cartagena’s enduring spirit.

Museum of Cartagena de Indias (Museo Histórico de Cartagena de Indias)
The Museo Histórico de Cartagena de Indias, housed in the former Palacio de la Inquisición, is one of the most emblematic and sobering landmarks in Cartagena. Located on Plaza de Bolívar, this museum is a striking example of 18th-century civil architecture and serves as a cultural and historical hub for the city. It offers a comprehensive narrative of Cartagena’s past—from pre-Columbian times through the colonial era and into the modern republic—through artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits.

  • One of the most haunting and historically significant features of the museum is the Ventana de la Denuncia, or “Window of Denunciation.” This small, unassuming window, marked by a crucifix, was once used during the Spanish Inquisition for anonymous accusations. Citizens could slip written denunciations of alleged heretics, witches, or blasphemers through the opening, setting in motion a process that often led to imprisonment, torture, or worse. The window is a chilling reminder of the oppressive mechanisms of religious control that once governed the city.
  • Inside the museum, visitors can explore rooms that once served as courtrooms and torture chambers. Exhibits include replicas of instruments used during the Inquisition, as well as detailed explanations of the judicial procedures employed by the Holy Office. The museum does not shy away from the brutality of this period; instead, it uses these displays to foster reflection on justice, human rights, and the dangers of unchecked authority.
  • Today, the Museo Histórico is not only a place of remembrance but also a space for education and dialogue. It regularly hosts cultural events, temporary exhibitions, and educational programs aimed at promoting historical awareness and civic responsibility. The Ventana de la Denuncia, in particular, stands as a powerful symbol—both of the dark chapters in Cartagena’s past and of the importance of preserving memory to prevent history from repeating itself.

Monument to Gertrudis (Monumento a Gertrudis)
The Monumento a Gertrudis, affectionately known as La Gorda Gertrudis, is one of Cartagena’s most beloved and photographed sculptures. Located in the lively Plaza Santo Domingo, this voluptuous bronze figure was created by renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero and gifted to the city in 2000.

  • Originally titled Reclining Figure 92, the statue quickly earned its nickname from locals due to its exaggerated, curvaceous form—an iconic example of Botero’s signature style, known as Boterismo, which celebrates volume and sensuality.
  • The sculpture depicts a reclining nude woman with a confident, serene expression, her body unapologetically full and relaxed. Botero’s intention was not only to challenge traditional ideals of beauty but also to inject humor and humanity into public spaces. Over time, La Gorda Gertrudis has become more than just a piece of art—it’s a symbol of Cartagena’s playful spirit and cultural pride. Tourists and locals alike flock to the statue, often posing for photos while touching her breast, a gesture said to bring good luck in love.
  • Set against the backdrop of colonial architecture and the historic Iglesia de Santo Domingo, the monument adds a modern artistic flair to the centuries-old plaza. The surrounding cafés and street performers make the area a vibrant social hub, and the statue itself serves as a popular meeting point. Its presence in such a prominent location underscores Cartagena’s embrace of both its colonial heritage and its contemporary cultural identity.
  • Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply exploring the city’s historic center, La Gorda Gertrudis offers a moment of whimsy and reflection. It invites viewers to engage with art in a tactile, personal way—something rare and refreshing in public sculpture.

Ice cream shop La Palettería
La Palettería is a beloved ice cream shop in Cartagena, Colombia, known for its artisanal popsicles—or paletas—that blend local flavors with creative flair. Located in the heart of the historic center on Calle de Ayos, just steps from Plaza Santo Domingo, this small but vibrant shop has become a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. With a 4.6-star rating and over 1,700 reviews, it’s widely praised for its refreshing treats and colorful, inviting atmosphere.

  • What sets La Palettería apart is its commitment to high-quality ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. The menu features a wide range of paletas, including fruit-based options like coconut-lime and passionfruit, as well as creamy indulgences like Nutella, pistachio, and Baileys. Many of the popsicles are dipped in chocolate or come with toppings like nuts and cookie crumbles, making them as photogenic as they are delicious. Reviewers often highlight the freshness of the ingredients and the richness of the flavors.
  • Despite its popularity, the shop maintains a cozy, boutique feel. It’s a grab-and-go experience—there’s limited seating inside—but that doesn’t stop visitors from lining up for a taste. The shop is open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, making it a perfect stop whether you’re cooling off after a day of sightseeing or looking for a late-night treat. The popsicles are reasonably priced, and the variety ensures there’s something for every palate.
  • La Palettería has earned a reputation not just for its desserts, but for capturing the essence of Cartagena’s tropical charm in frozen form. It’s a sweet intersection of tradition and innovation, where Colombian fruits and global flavors meet in a popsicle stick.

Calle de la Iglesia and Calle de Don Sancho
Calle de la Iglesia and Calle de Don Sancho are two of the most picturesque and historically rich streets in Cartagena’s walled city, each offering a unique window into the city’s colonial past and vibrant present.

  • Calle de la Iglesia is located in the heart of the historic center and is renowned for its proximity to some of Cartagena’s most iconic churches, including the Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría. The street is lined with beautifully preserved colonial buildings, many of which now house boutique hotels, galleries, and restaurants. Walking along Calle de la Iglesia feels like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone paths, wrought-iron balconies, and the gentle echo of church bells in the background. It’s a favorite route for visitors exploring the religious and architectural heritage of the city.
  • Calle de Don Sancho, by contrast, is known for its elegance and tranquility. This street is lined with grand colonial mansions, many of which have been converted into luxury hotels and private residences. According to local lore, it was named after Don Sancho Jimeno, a Spanish general who defended Cartagena during the 1697 attack by the French privateer Baron de Pointis. The street’s refined facades, adorned with ornate door knockers and lush hanging gardens, reflect the wealth and prestige of Cartagena’s colonial elite. It’s also home to the exquisite Hotel Casa Don Sancho by Mustique, a restored colonial home offering a luxurious stay in the heart of the old city.
  • Both streets are ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, and soaking in the ambiance of Cartagena’s historic core. While Calle de la Iglesia offers a more ecclesiastical and bustling atmosphere, Calle de Don Sancho provides a serene and stately escape. Together, they capture the dual spirit of Cartagena—devout and decadent, lively and contemplative.

University of Cartagena Cloister of La Merced (Universidad de Cartagena Claustro de la Merced)
The Universidad de Cartagena Claustro de la Merced is a historic and cultural gem nestled in the heart of Cartagena’s old city. Originally a 17th-century convent, the Claustro now serves as one of the university’s most iconic campuses and a hub for cultural and academic activity. Its elegant colonial architecture, peaceful courtyards, and scholarly ambiance make it a favorite stop for visitors interested in the intellectual and artistic life of the city. But what truly elevates this site is its profound connection to one of Colombia’s most celebrated literary figures: Gabriel García Márquez.

  • In 2016, the university became the custodian of the ashes of García Márquez, the Nobel Prize-winning author whose works like One Hundred Years of Solitude and Love in the Time of Cholera helped define magical realism. His remains are interred in a serene courtyard within the Claustro, beneath a bronze bust created by British sculptor Katie Murray. This space, now named the Patio Gabriel García Márquez, is more than a mausoleum—it’s a cultural sanctuary that honors his life, legacy, and deep ties to Cartagena, a city he once called “the place where I was reborn”.
  • The university has also established the Espacio Cultural Claustro de La Merced, a dynamic cultural center that includes a small museum dedicated to García Márquez. Visitors can view personal artifacts such as his eyeglasses, clothing, and even a replica of his Nobel Prize medal. The space also hosts art exhibitions, literary events, and educational programs that explore the themes of his work and his relationship with the Caribbean coast. It’s a place where students, locals, and tourists alike can engage with the spirit of “Gabo” in a meaningful and immersive way.
  • Visiting the Claustro de la Merced offers a rare opportunity to reflect on the life of a literary giant in a setting that inspired much of his writing. Whether you’re a devoted fan of García Márquez or simply curious about Colombia’s cultural heritage, this site offers a tranquil and enriching experience.

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Location

Location: Cartagena, Cartagena Province, Bolivar, Colombia