Cartagena is an historic city popular with both foreign and Colombian tourists who come for the beaches, fine dining and nightlife- but above all else- to see the Colonial architecture.

Cartagena was one of the primary port cities for exporting Spanish booty acquired after  plundering the South American mainland.  The resulting Spanish architecture is undeniably beautiful, and the cities Old Town echoes sentiments of Europe, with it’s narrow cobbled alleys and stucco buildings. The amount of precious metals being routed through Cartagena made it a magnet for perpetual pirate attacks.  Consequently the Spanish constructed a fort and 11 km wall surrounding the city, a feat which took more than 200 years due to a constant barrage of pirate attacks.  When finally completed, the city was said to be impregnable.  A large fortress, The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, still looms over the city and is a primary tourist attraction. (photos) In addition to historical sites and architecture, Cartagena possesses a distinct Colombian and Caribbean flair with vibrant shopping, nightlife, and dancing that lasts until the early hours of the morning. (photos) The only drawbacks to Cartagena, en mi opinion, are the heat and humidity and the uber-touristy vibe.