History
Cartagena was founded in 1533 and swiftly blossomed into the main Spanish port on the Caribbean coast and the gateway to the north of the continent. Treasures plundered from indigenous people was stored here until the galleons were able to ship it back to Spain. It attrackted pirates and in the 16th century alone suffered five sieges, the best known of which was led by Francis Drake in 1586.
In response, the Spaniards made Cartagena an impregnable port and cunstructed elaborate walls encircling the town, and a chain of forts. These fortifications helped save Cartagena from subsequent sieges.
Cartagena continued to flourish and during the colonial period the city was the key outpost of the Spanish empire, influencing much of Colombia´s history.
Today, Cartagena has expanded dramatically and is surrounded by vast suburbs. It is Colombia´s largest port and an important Industrial center. Nevertheless, the old walled town has changed very little.
Cartagena has also become a fashionable seaside resort. A modern tourist district has sprung up on Bocagrande and El Laquito, South of the old town. Most backpackers, however, stay in the historic part of town.
Cartagena´s climate is hot but fresh breeze blows in each evening, making this a pleasant time to stroll around the city. Theoretically, the driest period is from December to April, while October and November are the wettest months.
In response, the Spaniards made Cartagena an impregnable port and cunstructed elaborate walls encircling the town, and a chain of forts. These fortifications helped save Cartagena from subsequent sieges.
Cartagena continued to flourish and during the colonial period the city was the key outpost of the Spanish empire, influencing much of Colombia´s history.
Today, Cartagena has expanded dramatically and is surrounded by vast suburbs. It is Colombia´s largest port and an important Industrial center. Nevertheless, the old walled town has changed very little.
Cartagena has also become a fashionable seaside resort. A modern tourist district has sprung up on Bocagrande and El Laquito, South of the old town. Most backpackers, however, stay in the historic part of town.
Cartagena´s climate is hot but fresh breeze blows in each evening, making this a pleasant time to stroll around the city. Theoretically, the driest period is from December to April, while October and November are the wettest months.