Cartagena, known as the most beautiful port town in South America’s Colombia. “Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena” is Colombia’s first registered cultural World Heritage Site. Located on the Caribbean Sea where temperatures exceed 30°C year-round, Cartagena is a place where colorful buildings contrast beautifully with the blue ocean.
Let us introduce the charm of Cartagena, a World Heritage site where you can experience a tropical atmosphere!
What are the Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena?
Cartagena, the capital of Bolívar Department facing the Caribbean Sea, features ports, fortresses, and historical buildings constructed during the Spanish colonial era, making it a popular tourist destination in Colombia. Because the city remains in excellent condition and conveys the Spanish colonial period, it was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1984 as the “Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena.”
Cartagena’s unique geography made it ideal for defense, making it a perfect port. The city was developed by Spanish explorer Pedro de Heredia in 1533. The port rapidly flourished through the import of African slaves and exports to Spain from the Americas. Due to being targeted by pirates, fortress construction was undertaken aggressively.
Cartagena’s first fortress began in the late 16th century, undergoing repeated expansion and repairs until its completion in 1735. The 12-meter-high, 17-meter-wide, and 4-kilometer-long fortress still surrounds the old town. In addition, many other fortresses were built in each bay and lagoon, and the value of these military structures was one reason they were registered as a World Heritage Site.
Name: Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
Address: Cartagena, Colombia
Official/related website URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/285
Access to Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
Cartagena is located 1,000 km north of Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, and is typically accessed by plane. Domestic flights run to Cartagena from Bogotá and other Colombian cities. From Bogotá, it takes about an hour to reach Rafael Núñez International Airport in Cartagena. Direct flights are also available from cities in Panama, New York, Atlanta, and Canada. The most common way to reach Cartagena from the airport is by taxi. Don’t forget to get an official taxi voucher at the airport! (This allows you to travel at a set price based on the destination.)
3 highlights of the port, fortress, and historic monuments
Torre del Reloj
Torre del Reloj is a landmark in the World Heritage city of Cartagena. In the plaza where this clock tower is located and other squares in the old town, you’ll find street performances, markets, and shops selling handmade souvenirs, making your stroll more enjoyable. While staying in Cartagena, be sure to enjoy the various views of the old town alongside the World Heritage structures.
Cartagena’s port, fortresses, and historical buildings offer many sights, but strolling through the old town is a must. Once called the “Pearl of the Indies,” the beautiful Cartagena has three districts in its old town. The city is compact enough to explore on foot.
Old Town
For those who think, “It’s too hot to walk around Cartagena under the blazing sun...,” taking a carriage ride is recommended. You can comfortably and efficiently tour the highlights of Cartagena, a World Heritage city. It’s also recommended for those who want to get an overall view of the city first.
If you want to explore the World Heritage sites even more quickly than by carriage, consider renting a bicycle. Cartagena has many rental bike shops, making it convenient if you're heading outside the old town.
San Felipe Fortress
Among Cartagena’s fortresses, the San Felipe Fortress has played a major historical role. Completed in 1657, this fortress was built sturdily and demonstrated its strength in the 1741 battle with Britain.
Called a “masterpiece of Spanish military engineering on the South American continent,” the San Felipe Fortress is a highlight among the World Heritage Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena. Located within walking distance of the old town, it also offers a breathtaking view of Cartagena.
Cautions when visiting Port, Fortresses, and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
With a tropical climate year-round, temperatures in Cartagena can exceed 40°C. Since much of the visit to the port, fortresses, and historical buildings is outdoors, heat countermeasures are necessary. Go out in the cooler evening hours, and when walking around during the day, be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and drinks. When exploring the old town, you may see people in traditional costumes—be aware that taking photos of them may result in being asked for money.
◎ Summary
Among Colombia’s cities, Cartagena is relatively safe and has a laid-back atmosphere. With many attractive tourist spots, the port, fortresses, and historical buildings can be seen throughout the town. Why not take a trip to enjoy World Heritage in this eternally tropical and relaxing city?