Torre del Reloj | Cartagena

Information

Landmark: Torre del Reloj
City: Cartagena
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Torre del Reloj, Cartagena, Colombia, South America

The Torre del Reloj is a prominent clock tower situated at the main entrance to Cartagena's historic walled city in Colombia.

This structure serves as a gateway and a historical marker for the colonial-era fortifications.

Visual Characteristics

The tower is constructed from white stone, featuring a distinctive red-tiled roof. It stands approximately 30 meters tall and exhibits a Neoclassical architectural style with Baroque influences. The main archway is flanked by two smaller arches, and the clock face is visible on all four sides of the upper section.

Location & Access Logistics

The Torre del Reloj is located at the intersection of Calle 31 and Carrera 1, directly adjacent to the main city walls. It is approximately 1 kilometer from the city center of Cartagena. Vehicle access is restricted within the walled city; visitors typically arrive on foot. Parking is available in designated public lots outside the city walls, such as the parking area near the Convention Center, approximately 200 meters away. Public buses do not enter the historic center, but many routes stop near the city walls.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Torre del Reloj was completed in 1888. It was designed by an Italian architect, although his name is not widely recorded. The tower was originally built as the main entrance and a defensive point for the walled city, replacing an older gate. It also served to house the city's main clock.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the clock mechanism from the exterior. The archways provide passage into the walled city. Photography of the tower's facade is a common activity. The area surrounding the tower is a pedestrian thoroughfare.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in nearby commercial establishments within the walled city. Shade is provided by the tower's structure and surrounding buildings. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this area. Food vendors and restaurants are abundant within the historic center, immediately beyond the tower.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon (approximately 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM) offers favorable lighting conditions as the sun begins to descend. The months of December through April generally provide drier weather. The tower is accessible year-round during daylight hours.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the tower was built on the site of a former execution ground, though historical records do not confirm this. The clock itself was imported from Switzerland.