Points of Interest
- Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
- Cartagena's Cathedral
- Old City
- Historical Museum of Cartagena
Description
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Your tour begins as you board your transportation for a scenic 15-minute drive through the Manga residential area to the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas (Fort of San Felipe). En route, you'll witness "Republican" architecture and several mansions restored to their original splendor. Upon arriving at the magnificent fortress, you'll quickly see why Cartagena was the most impenetrable city of the Spanish Main. This 17th-century construction is the largest Spanish fort in the New World, representing the most important work of Spanish military engineering in South America. This photo stop is just a hint of what's to come. Your next destination is Las Bóvedas, place that used to be the prison for slaves in times of Spanish ruling. Afterwards, enjoy a splendid and unique view of the Caribbean Sea at Baluarte Santa Catalina, on top of Las Bovedas.
Next, you'll wander the narrow cobblestone streets and city squares of the famed Old City, a walled city with narrow streets and well tended Spanish Colonial buildings. The city is connected by a series of bridges and divided by 17th century walls into an "historic old city" and a cosmopolitan "modern city." Many local bars and restaurants in the old walled town's compact historic core, a UNESCO World Heritage site, remains its shining centerpiece.
You'll stroll to the 18th century Historical Museum of Cartagena and visit this fine example of colonial architecture, yet eerie reminder of "dark" days gone by. The Museum's façade features grilles and balcony, colonial-style, and a gate reflective of the baroque style. Behind the charming façade, a museum displays instruments of torture from the Spanish Inquisition, pre-Columbian, colonial and independence era art. You'll stroll through Plaza de Bolívar and make your way to San Pedro Claver Church. Built in the 17th century, the church displays exquisite statues and old-world furnishings honoring the missionary Saint Peter Claver, the patron saint of slaves and the first saint canonized in the Western Hemisphere.
Continue your journey to the Navy Museum, established in 1986, restored ruins of the Jesuits school, discover the historic military efforts of Cartagena, enjoy the wealth of historical artifacts, maritime life and naval history of Colombia, enjoy a local show and a refreshing soft drink.
You will have approximately 35 minutes to explore by your own & shop into the Old City before returning to the ship.