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Enjoy the wonders that Cartagena has to offer.
Bastion of San Francisco Javier
Located in the historic center of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, this bastion was built in the 17th century as part of the city's defense system. Originally named "Baluarte de los Cestones," it was later renamed due to its proximity to the Jesuit school. Its main function was to protect the maritime entrance through Bocagrande and the Contaduría dock.
After suffering damage during attacks such as the one led by the privateer De Pointis in 1697, it was rebuilt in the 18th century, adopting its current form with Baroque details. Today, restored and well-preserved, it houses a restaurant and is a popular tourist spot—perfect for enjoying history and views of the Caribbean Sea.
Las Amurallada
The Walled City of Cartagena de Indias is one of the most important historical treasures in Latin America. Built between the 16th and 18th centuries to defend the city from pirates and enemies, its walls, forts, and cobblestone streets tell stories of conquests, trade, and culture. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vibrant place full of life, color, colonial architecture, and Caribbean charm. It's perfect for strolling, taking photos, and enjoying a unique experience that blends history and modernity.
La India Catalina
India Catalina was an indigenous woman of Zenú origin who lived in the 16th century and played a crucial role during the Spanish conquest in what is now Colombia. As a young girl, she was captured by Spanish conquistadors and taken to Santo Domingo, where she learned the language, customs, and religion of Europe. Today, India Catalina is a symbol of indigenous resistance and the cultural blend that shaped Caribbean identity. Her bronze statue, located in Cartagena, has become an icon of the city. Moreover, her name is used for the India Catalina Awards, which celebrate the best of Colombian television.
San Felipe de Barajas Castle
The San Felipe de Barajas Castle is a fortress located in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, and is considered one of the most important military structures built by the Spanish in the Americas. Its construction began in 1536 by order of King Charles V of Spain and was significantly expanded in 1657 during the rule of Viceroy Pedro Zapata de Mendoza. Today, San Felipe de Barajas Castle stands as a symbol of Colombia’s historical and cultural heritage and is one of Cartagena’s most visited tourist attractions.
The Pegasi
Los Pegasos is a set of iconic sculptures located next to the tourist dock in Cartagena de Indias, near the Convention Center and in front of the Clock Tower. They depict two winged horses (pegasi), mythological figures that have become a modern symbol of the city. Today, Los Pegasos is a popular cultural and tourist landmark, and a favorite spot for taking photos, enjoying romantic horse-drawn carriage rides, or simply admiring the view where modern and historic Cartagena meet.
Zenú Gold Museum
The Zenú Gold Museum is located in the heart of the Historic Center of Cartagena de Indias, right in front of Plaza de Bolívar. It was inaugurated in 1982 as a regional branch of the Bank of the Republic, with the aim of preserving, researching, and sharing the cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples of the Colombian Caribbean, especially the Zenú culture. Today, the Zenú Gold Museum is a free and popular cultural space visited by both tourists and locals, playing a key role in preserving the indigenous memory of the Colombian Caribbean.
Alexandrian Cathedral
The Cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria is one of the oldest and most emblematic religious buildings in Cartagena de Indias. Its history began in 1577, when its construction was initiated under the direction of architect Simón González, inspired by the Herrerian and Spanish colonial styles. Today, it serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Cartagena, is a Historical Heritage site of Colombia, and one of the most visited tourist and religious places in the city.
The Palace of the Inquisition
The Palace of the Inquisition in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, was built in the 17th century as the headquarters of the Holy Office of the Inquisition Tribunal in the Spanish colonies. Its main function was to judge those accused of heresy and other religious crimes. Today, the building is a museum that exhibits historical objects, such as torture instruments, and provides information about the Inquisition in America. It is a prominent example of Spanish colonial architecture.
Bolívar Square
Bolívar Square in Cartagena, formerly known as Plaza Mayor, is a historic space surrounded by colonial buildings such as the Cathedral of Santa Catalina and the Palace of the Inquisition. It features the statue of Simón Bolívar (1896) and offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for resting and exploring the historic downtown.
It is also a lively place for artists and street vendors.
Its location makes it a key starting point for tourist tours.
Convent of La Popa
The Convent of La Popa, one of the most emblematic places in Cartagena de Indias, is located atop La Popa Hill, about 150 meters above sea level. Its privileged position makes it not only a natural viewpoint of the city but also a place full of history, faith, and legends. Currently, the Convent of La Popa is an important tourist and pilgrimage site. Beyond its spiritual value, its location offers a spectacular view of the historic center, the bay, Bocagrande, and the popular neighborhoods. Inside, visitors can see religious relics, colonial paintings, and the famous image of the Virgin, which remains an object of deep devotion.
Santo Domingo Square
It is one of those places where time seems to stand still, offering you a perfect moment. Surrounded by colorful restaurants and animated by musicians and dancers, this plaza is the beating heart of the walled city of Cartagena. On one of its corners stands the Church of Santo Domingo, the oldest temple in the city, a silent witness to centuries of stories and legends. Right in the center, “La Gorda Gertrudis,” the famous sculpture by Fernando Botero, invites visitors to touch it in search of good luck in love. Between its cobblestone streets and festive atmosphere, the plaza blends the charm of the past with the vibrant joy of the present, making it a must-visit stop for anyone who wants to feel the living essence of Cartagena.
The Clock Tower of Cartagena
It is an iconic monument located in the heart of the city’s Historic Center, marking the main entrance to the Walled City. Built between 1704 and 1738, it initially served as a military defense and was later renovated in 1888, acquiring its current form. Its architecture stands out for a design that combines colonial elements with fortification details. Today, it is one of Cartagena’s main tourist attractions, surrounded by plazas, cobblestone streets, and historic sites such as the Cathedral of Santa Catalina and the Zenú Gold Museum. The tower is also a popular starting point for cultural and gastronomic tours of the city.
The Church of San Pedro Claver
The Church of San Pedro Claver, originally called the Church of San Juan de Dios, is one of the most important and symbolic temples in Cartagena de Indias, valued both for its architecture and its historical and spiritual significance. Today, the church is a National Historic Heritage site and a place of pilgrimage and cultural tourism. Its central figure — Saint Peter Claver — remains a symbol of the fight for human rights and a faith committed to the most vulnerable.
Trinity Square
In the Getsemaní neighborhood of Cartagena de IndiasIt is a historic and lively place. It was established in the 17th century alongside the Church of the Holy Trinity and played a key role in Cartagena’s independence in 1811. Today, it is a vibrant meeting point filled with music, street performers, food vendors, and surrounding bars. It is also decorated with colorful graffiti and features a statue of Pedro Romero, leader of the independence rebellion. It’s the perfect spot to feel the cultural and popular soul of the city.
Carriage Square
In the vibrant heart of Cartagena de Indias lies Plaza de los Coches, one of the most emblematic and colorful spots within the walled city. Surrounded by colonial architecture and guarded by the imposing Clock Gate, this plaza is a perfect meeting point for those wanting to immerse themselves in Cartagena’s history and culture. Once a center for the slave trade and horse-drawn carriages, today Plaza de los Coches dazzles with the traditional Sweet Portal, where delicious local treats entice both residents and visitors. With its lively atmosphere, street music, and unmatched cultural offerings, the plaza invites you to experience the joyful and welcoming essence of Cartagena.
Santo Domingo Church
The Church of Santo Domingo is the oldest church in Cartagena de Indias, built by the Dominican Order. Its construction began in 1552, shortly after the city was founded, and was completed toward the end of the 16th century. Today, the Church of Santo Domingo remains active and is an important tourist attraction. In front of it stands the famous sculpture “La Gorda Gertrudis” by artist Fernando Botero, making the site one of the most photographed spots in Cartagena.
