Cartagena

About

Cartagena was founded by Pedro de Heredia in 1533. Thanks to its strategic position on the Caribbean coast between the Magdalena and Sinú rivers, it served as Spain’s primary port for trade in the New World. In order to defend its interests, the Spanish built an extensive fortification system around the city, which has been preserved to this day. Within the 13 kilometer ring of defensive walls are a jumble of cobbled streets lined with colonial buildings, bursting with color courtesy of bougainvillea and other tropical plants. Sure, there are individual landmarks to seek out, like the beautiful Iglesia de San Pedro Claver, and fascinating Palace of the Inquisition, but the best way to experience the city is to just wander, grabbing some street food as you go. You will want to make sure you wander to the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas - perhaps the mightiest Spanish fortification outside of Spain.