Catedral de Cartagena | Cartagena

Information

Landmark: Catedral de Cartagena
City: Cartagena
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Catedral de Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia, South America

The Catedral de Cartagena is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the historic Walled City of Cartagena, Colombia. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cartagena.

Visual Characteristics

The cathedral features a facade constructed from coral stone and limestone. It has a single nave with side chapels. The exterior is painted a pale yellow, with white trim around windows and doorways. A prominent bell tower rises from the northwest corner. The interior contains a large pipe organ and various religious artworks.

Location & Access Logistics

The cathedral is situated in the Plaza de la Catedral in the historic center of Cartagena. It is approximately 1km from the main port facilities. Public parking is limited in the immediate vicinity; visitors typically use paid parking garages located within the walled city, such as the one at Parque de la Marina (approximately 0.8km East). Access is primarily on foot within the pedestrianized historic district. No specific bus lines directly serve the plaza, but several routes terminate near the city walls.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the original church on this site began in 1575 and was completed in 1602. It was elevated to cathedral status in 1577. The current structure was largely rebuilt and consecrated in 1704 after damage from a French pirate attack in 1697. The primary building material, coral stone, was quarried from offshore reefs.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the architectural details of the facade and interior. The main altar and side chapels contain religious iconography. The pipe organ is a notable feature. Photography is permitted within the cathedral. Mass services are held daily.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the cathedral complex. Limited shaded areas are present in the surrounding plaza. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the walled city. Food and beverage vendors are common in the plaza and surrounding streets.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal interior lighting and fewer crowds, visiting in the morning between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM is recommended. The afternoon can be warmer and busier. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the cathedral's bell tower was intentionally built slightly off-center to avoid a curse placed by a disgruntled architect.