The Cartagena city walls stand as a romantic reminder of its glorious past. They attest to the stubbornness and resolution that Cartagena's inhabitants exhibited in defending themselves from the assault of countless fleets and armies.
Las murallas, as the walls are known, were the city's main defense against pirates in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. The walls played a crucial role during the wars of independence from Spain at the beginning of the 19th century and shielded the city from the attacks of foreign nations and neighboring provinces during the many civil wars that afflicted the nascent Colombian republic. During the 20th and 21st centuries, the magical presence of the walls has seemingly protected Colombia's northernmost land from the social, political and drug-related violence that infests the rest of the country.
The Old City's narrow cobblestoned streets are enchanting. Emerald and leather shops fill colonial buildings, whose overhanging wooden balconies are festooned with flowering plants. Ornate churches with golden altars open onto grand public squares reminiscent of European capitals. And if you climb las murallas, you'll be treated to wonderful views of the city's famous harbor. You can also glimpse the sprawling modern city beyond, with its pockets of wealth interspersed within widespread poverty.
Cartagena continues to attract international travelers, especially conference and convention types, and many others arrive by cruise ship, despite warnings to stay away from other parts of Colombia. Cartagena is also a popular vacation destination for middle-class and wealthy Colombians.
Location
Ships enter Cartagena Bay via Bocachica, a narrow inlet protected by two imposing fortresses, San Jose and San Fernando. Most cruise ships tie up at the dock located on the northernmost point of Cartagena Bay, about 2 mi/2.5 km southeast of the heart of the Old City. A free shuttle bus takes you to the terminal, which is a pleasant place where tourism officials serve Colombian coffee and provide information. In addition, you can go to the Juan Valdez coffee shop and choose among different bean varieties, from the mildest to the strongest. You can also arrange a guided taxi tour of the city and make long-distance calls from the terminal, which has several small gift shops. Don't walk around in the neighborhood of the port, however—it's not entirely safe.
Shore Excursions
Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship. They may not be the least expensive way to see Cartagena, but you won't have to waste your limited time making arrangements yourself—and you won't have to worry about missing the ship. Shore excursions—and their prices—vary from cruise line to cruise line. Typical excursions are a tour of the old city, a visit to the botanical garden or a cruise through the Inner Bay. Check with your ship's shore-excursion staff or your travel agent for additional information.
