La Amurallada: The Walled City

One of the most beautiful parts of Cartagena is known as the Walled City, or Amurallada en espanol. Today it is a historic district full of street vendors, bountiful marketplaces, residences, restaurants, shops, schools, museums, and picturesque parks. The nearly 7 miles of prominent stone walls that surround the city were completed in 1756 after 208 years of construction funded by Spain to protect the city from further attack and takeover. Today these walls still stand and offer great views of the ocean to the West. Walking along the wall around the city is very impressive. If only we could have traveled back to 1756 to see what it was like with cannons and guards at every watch tower; what a sight that would have been.

The streets are narrow and the buildings many different colors, some with elaborate entrances and flowering vines growing up the outer walls. Parks with fountains and beautiful landscaping as well as lively cobblestone squares can be found at every other corner. The architecture of the buildings has been very carefully preserved in this part of the city in order to maintain the old historic atmosphere.

Many people work within the walled city and many kids also go to school there. When the work day is over and school lets out the streets come alive. We were completely surrounded by friendly people walking around enjoying the afternoon breeze, buying food from street vendors, shopping, or just relaxing in one of the many parks. The walled city is definitely a must see in Cartagena.

WWI