Culture of Cartagena. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

The main historical value of Cartagena is its colonial-times structures. You can endlessly admire the beautiful views of palaces and charming streets. The concentration of outstanding historic landmarks is the area of Centro Amurallado (Centro-Amuralyado) surrounded by fortress walls, whose name can literally be translated as "Old Town". This is the place accommodating many beautiful colonial palaces, picturesque squares and park areas, as well as several ancient monasteries, whose buildings have been converted into modern hotels.

The ancient San Felipe de Barajas Castle is deservedly called the city's most interesting historic monument. Its construction began in 1533, immediately after the founding of the city, and was completed only by the second half of the 17th century. The main building material for the construction of fortification structures was shell rock. The castle is striking in its scale and spectacular appearance, despite the fact that it has never been finished.

Casa de Marqués De Hoyos Val stands out among outstanding architectural monuments. It is a classic example of Spanish colonial architecture that has preserved its original appearance after several centuries. However, the Palace of Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisicion ) built in the second half of the 18th century is not inferior to it in beauty. The palace gate is made in the best traditions of baroque style, and the main decoration of its majestic facade is graceful balconies. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

One of the most picturesque places in Cartagena's historic quarter is Plaza de la Aduana , the oldest square in the city. Next, to it, you can see the colorful old Town Hall building, as well as a symbolic monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus. Tourists are no less attracted by the charming Los Coches Square (Plaza Los Coches ) where the city's best confectionery shops.

As for religious attractions, the Iglesia de Santo Domingo is rightly considered the most significant of them. Its construction was completed in 1536. The church became the first religious building in the newly-formed city. A site belonging to a much later period is the Cathedral of Cartagena ), the construction of which lasted 27 years. The opening of the cathedral took place in 1602. Today it attracts travelers with luxurious design and variety of artworks presented in its alls.

A structure with a quite interesting history is the Vaults (Las Bóvedas ). Erected in the 16th century, it was originally used as a prison. Later, the building has changed its status several times, and today it houses one of the most popular city markets. The most interesting sights of the historic district are old historic convents, including La Popa Monastery . The religious complex accommodates the ancient Chapel of the Virgen de la Candelaria named after the patron saint of the city. A large part of the old monastery is currently converted into a historical museum.

As for cultural establishments, the Museum of Gold has been the most visited among them for many years. Its visitors are introduced to a unique collection of precious metal products dating back to pre-Hispanic times. Exhibits presented in the museum once belonged to the first inhabitants of these places - Indian tribes; therefore many of them have cult significance. Cartagena can also boast the amazing Naval Museum, as well as the Museum of Modern Art displaying works by Alejandro Obregón.