Cartagena was founded in 1533 by Spaniard Don Pedro de Heredia and soon became one of the three most important Spanish ports in the West Indies along with La Habana and San Juan de Puerto Rico. It was used to export gold and silver from the mines in New Granada and Peru back to Europe and import goods and slaves - the only city along with Veracruz in Mexico authorised to trade in slaves. To protect the city from attack by pirates, a vast system of fortifications was developed in the 17th century which today surround the old city and constitute the most complete example of this type of military architecture in the New World. The historic attractions in the San Pedro quarter include the Church of Santo Domingo and the Convent of San Pedro Claver, in addition to the imposing Castle of San Felipe de Barajas Fortress and the Convent of La Popa, built on a hilltop overlooking the city. Elsewhere in town, the narrow streets have colonial buildings characterised by heavy wooden doors and balconies while Los Bovedas, previously a row of old dungeon cells, today house charming boutiques and tourist shops.
Location:
Colombia
Travel to Cartagena
Organised group tours: Click here to see 13 tours to Colombia which may include Cartagena.
