Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena, Cartagena

Little,it seems, has changed in Cartagena's 500 yr old history.Founded in 1533 during Spain's colonization era,many of its original buildings remain to present time. Most impressive is the walkable muralla that surrounds the city. This massive wall and fortresses protected the city and secured the treasures and slave trade from pirates that routinely ravaged the open sea coast. Cartagena is that perfect blend of colonial and contemporary,culture and churches permeating every facet of daily life and the many religious structures on literally every barrio and corner.The beautiful and colorful balconied buildings bedecked with flowers and the many modern art iron scupltures in the plazas attest to the dual sided view of the city. The constant flow of traffic and the silent hum of humanity also contibute to Cartagena's vibrant character. Places to see--1.La muralla that encircles the entire city.2.Barajas castillo a massive fortress having a complex tunnel system.3.los zapatos viejos,a sculpture of shoes nearby 4.Las bovedas,souvenir shops of handicrafts near barrio San Diego and an antique shop nearby 5.La Popa, a cifftop colonial monastary with stunning views along a winding road best to take a cab ride there.6.Bocagrande,locale of hi-rises and beaches and a McDonalds golden arches cafe on 9th st.for that ice cream and burger fix 7.Plaza del reloj,location of 16th century slave trade and entrace to the old city.8. main cathedral and numerous churches,in plazas,ie Sto Domingo,Peter Claver,San Roque,etc.9.Pegasus statues,large iron horses near the marina 10.museo de oro,display of gold and archeology and a heavenly A/C cooling room 11.Barrio Getsamani,a bohemian sector of the city of many hostels and backbackers,12.palacio of the inquisicion,with huge palm trees at its entrance.13.La boquilla,a tiny fishing town 30 min away,quiet lagoon beaches and palapas to kick back and enjoy.14. Hotel charleston,for a cool beverage and roof top pool views! 15. museo de arte 16. Universidad of Cartagena,beautiful architecture 17. Third Order church of St Francis and lovely gardens 18. Convention ctr.-1980,modern art inside.19. Teatro heredia mejia,locale for Hay festival and beautiful example of colonial architecure.20.many plaza parks with statues of historical figures 21.city pet store on calle Large,cute displays of animals Foods to try-- arepa,a maize biscuit,yucca a desert plant that is steamed,empanada,stuffed with meat and chicken.Many rest. and cafes Caution-many stray dogs roam about,very narrow sidewalks that are often in disrepair,fenetic paced traffic and everyone jaywalks! finally a city after my own heart! and be wary of street vendors,they're a constant bombardment like pit bulls,some are. And be sure the cab driver keeps his word on taxi quotes,some try to change their price on arrival! Temperatures-- Cartagena is a constant 88 degrees of heat and humidity! South America can be fun in Cartagena la antigua!