Have you ever heard of Cartagena?
This Colombian city is one of the most vibrant and colorful places in South America.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and tropical weather, Cartagena is a must-see destination for any traveler.
In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through this beautiful city, from its colonial past to its modern present.
A Brief History
Cartagena was founded in 1533 by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia.
The city quickly became an important port for the Spanish Empire, serving as a hub for trade and commerce.
However, Cartagena was also a target for pirates and privateers, who frequently attacked the city in search of treasure.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Cartagena became one of the wealthiest and most important cities in the New World. The city’s walls, which still stand today, were built during this time to protect it from further attacks. T
he walls are a testament to Cartagena’s rich history and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Exploring the Old City
The old city of Cartagena is a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and hidden courtyards.
The best way to explore this area is on foot, allowing you to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. As you wander through the old city, you’ll encounter stunning colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and bustling plazas.
One of the most iconic sights in the old city is the Torre del Reloj, or Clock Tower. This tower was built in the 18th century and served as the main entrance to the city. Today, it’s a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike.
Another must-see attraction in the old city is the Cathedral of Cartagena.
This stunning church was built in the 16th century and features a mix of architectural styles, including Baroque and Gothic. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate altars.
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A Taste of Cartagena
Cartagena is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of cuisine influenced by its diverse history.
Some of the must-try dishes in the city include ceviche, a seafood dish made with lime juice and spices, and arepas, a type of corn cake filled with cheese or meat.
For a truly unique culinary experience, head to La Cevichería, a restaurant made famous by the Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
The restaurant’s specialty is ceviche, and it’s rumored that Marquez would eat there regularly during his visits to the city.
Beaches and Islands
Cartagena is also known for its beautiful beaches and nearby islands.
One of the most popular beaches in the city is Playa Blanca, located about an hour’s drive from the old city. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand.
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, head to the Rosario Islands.
These islands are a short boat ride from Cartagena and offer pristine beaches, snorkeling, and diving.
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Nightlife
Cartagena is a city that comes alive at night, with a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to a variety of tastes.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back bar or a high-energy club, you’ll find it in Cartagena.
One of the best places to start your night out is at Café del Mar, a bar located on top of the old city walls.
Here, you can enjoy a drink while taking in stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the city below.
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Final Thoughts
Cartagena is a city that’s full of surprises, with a rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a beautiful place to relax and unwind, Cartagena has something for everyone.
As you explore the city, you’ll be struck by the juxtaposition of the old and the new. The colonial architecture and ancient walls stand in stark contrast to the modern buildings and bustling streets. It’s this unique blend of the old and the new that makes Cartagena such a fascinating place to visit.
But Cartagena is more than just a tourist destination. It’s a living, breathing city with a rich culture and a vibrant community. From the street vendors selling fresh fruit to the musicians playing in the plazas, there’s a sense of energy and life that permeates the city.
So if you’re looking for a destination that’s both beautiful and full of life, put Cartagena on your list. You won’t be disappointed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cartagena such a unique travel destination?
Cartagena is a unique travel destination due to its rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife scene.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a beautiful place to relax and unwind, Cartagena has something for everyone.
What are some must-see attractions in Cartagena?
Some must-see attractions in Cartagena include the Torre del Reloj, or Clock Tower, the Cathedral of Cartagena, and the old city’s maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and hidden courtyards.
What’s the best way to experience Cartagena’s nightlife scene?
The best way to experience Cartagena’s nightlife scene is to start your night out at Café del Mar, a bar located on top of the old city walls.
Here, you can enjoy a drink while taking in stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the city below. From there, explore the city’s vibrant bars and clubs, which cater to a variety of tastes.
Before you go…
Now you know Travel From Medellin To Cartagena: A Quick Guide For First-Timers, but that’s only the beginning of your journey here at we like Colombia. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your Colombian journey. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most people.
Esteban Parcero
Esteban Parcero, a Puerto Rican, that has a deep connection with Colombia, which he considers his second home. He has been frequently visiting the country for over a decade, immersing himself in the vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. Esteban has made many friends in Colombia and particularly loves Medellín for its stunning landscapes, nightlife, and people. Through his travels, Steve has gained a unique perspective on Latin American culture and has become an advocate for promoting cultural exchange between different countries.
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