Sightseeing in Cartagena - what to see. Complete travel guide

Cartagena is considered one of the most charming and interesting cities in Colombia. Founded by the Spanish colonialists in 1533, the port city has managed to preserve its priceless historical heritage and unique cultural atmosphere. Cartagena is a unique city, a visit to which would be interesting for all travelers. Fans of excursions and hiking will be delighted by the variety of historical and cultural monuments, while shopping lovers will enjoy a huge selection of noisy and colorful markets. The city has excellent conditions for beach recreation, the coast is sure to please divers.

The underwater world is famous not only for its diversity of inhabitants but also for its historical sights. Many years ago Cartagena attracted British corsairs. The result of their struggle with the indigenous population is sunk merchant ships resting on the seabed since then. Thousands of divers from all corners of the world visit these places to see them. According to historical data, unique treasures are flooded off the coast of Cartagena. Demanding travelers will be pleased with the city's well-developed tourist infrastructure: there are many high-class hotels, shopping, and entertainment centers. It is noteworthy that many fashionable hotels are housed in beautiful historic buildings. Facilities of this kind have remained at the peak of popularity among tourists.

The most prestigious district of the port city is Castillo grande where you can find the most prestigious hotels, restaurants, and boutiques offering customers jewels of the highest quality. Precious stones, in particular emeralds, has been extracted in Cartagena since ancient times. Local gemstones are quite cheap in comparison with the prices of European jewelry stores. Jewelry is the most popular souvenirs for wealthy tourists. Guests of the city are strongly recommended to buy them exceptionally in specialized boutiques. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

On every street and beach of the city, you can meet locals who sell emeralds and elegant jewelry at incredibly low prices. Of course, there could be no question of any value of the so-called "stones" - they all pass ordinary glass off as emeralds.

In general, street vendors are one of the main distinguishing features of Cartagena. Regardless of what city district has been chosen for a vacation, you cannot avoid the scrutiny of street vendors and private cab drivers. For many local residents, trade is the main livelihood, so excessive importunity should not be taken as a desire to annoy. The attitude of local residents to visitors is very friendly and welcoming, they will gladly provide any available assistance for material rewards. Over the past 500 years, Cartagena has evolved from a small port town to a first-class resort that remains one of the most popular cities in Colombia.

Simply no vacation in Cartagena is possible without visiting local historical landmarks, many of which have remained since the colonial period in the history of the city. San Pedro Claver Square is a typical starting point of numerous excursion programs. There is a beautiful cathedral not far from it. The building of the gorgeous church started yet in 1575 and lasted more than 25 years. The cathedral still has many old religious artifacts and precious artworks.

The picturesque Bolivar Square is located nearby. It is famous for the statue of the first president of Columbia that is installed there. Cartagena is also home to several interesting museums, with the archaeological one being the most frequently visited. Several archaeological teams work in the outskirts of the city, and their precious findings are available at the museum. Tourists can also attend some archaeological sites during an excursion.

The Museum of History is another interesting venue. It is open in a beautiful old building that belonged to a female monastery in the past. The building, which dates back to the 16th century, is a precious archaeological artifact itself. The Las Bovedas prison building is definitely one of the most unusual historical landmarks in the region. It was also finished in the 16th century. Nowadays, the attractive building has become home to numerous shops that offer various goods, including locally sourced products and interesting souvenirs. Finally, the picturesque Cartagena waterfront is the best destination for going out in the evening. There are several attractive old buildings not far from the waterfront.