Witness the multi-cultural history of Cartagena, Colombia
2010-02-03
Travelers seeking a destination rife with historical significance and epic
scenery might want to book a flight to Cartagena, Colombia.
Named a
UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Cartagena was one of the first sanctuaries
for freed African slaves in North, Central and South America. This fact has led
the city to develop a highly cosmopolitan culture all of its own, with the
architecture, food and even the regional dialect reflecting influences from a
more multicultural history.
The city is located along the Northern Coast
of Colombia and its rich history has made Cartagena one of the most popular
tourist destinations in South America. Visitors typically flock to one of two
unique locations in the city - the historically beautiful Ciudad Amurallada and
the modern expanses of Boca Grande.
Ciudad Amurallada is a walled
colonial city, boasting traditional Spanish buildings, 500-year old coral stone
forts and the marvelous, Dutch-built castle Castillo de San Felipe. Visitors can
climb to the top of the nearby La Popa hill to see a breathtaking view of the
harbor area and the city at large.
Boca Grande provides visitors with
one of the finest white-sand beaches in the country flanked by a collection of
monolithic hotels and condos, as well as several hip shops and cafes and night
clubs.