Ancient Mediterranean port city with Roman ruins and naval history. Founded by Carthaginians, birthplace of Emperor Trajan and conquistador Hernán Cortés. Popular coastal resort in Murcia.
Cartagena, a port city on Spain's southeastern coast, has witnessed over 2,000 years of history. You can explore its well-preserved Roman theater, admire elegant modernist buildings, and visit naval museums. The city's strategic harbor, which has drawn settlers for millennia, now serves as a backdrop for waterfront promenades where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
Roman Theater and Archaeological Sites
The Roman Theater of Carthago Nova dates back to 5-1 BC and once accommodated 6,000 spectators. You can walk through the excavated ruins and visit the adjacent museum to learn about life in Roman Cartagena. To further explore the city's Roman past, head to the Roman Forum Quarter. This area contains the remains of thermal baths and the Decumanus, a main street of the ancient city. At the Casa de la Fortuna, a 1st-century BC villa, you'll see preserved mosaics and frescoes that show how wealthy Romans lived.
Naval Museums and Maritime History
Cartagena's natural harbor has played a crucial role in its development for centuries. Visit the Naval Museum, housed in an 18th-century building, to see exhibits on Spanish naval history, including ship models and navigation instruments. For a different view, take a boat tour of the harbor to see the city's fortifications from the water. The Underwater Archaeology Museum (ARQVA) displays artifacts recovered from shipwrecks, including the treasure of the Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes frigate. Here, you can learn about maritime archaeology and see objects found beneath the waves.
Modernist Architecture on Calle Mayor
Walk along Calle Mayor, Cartagena's main street, to see modernist buildings from the early 20th century. The Grand Hotel, built in 1916, showcases Art Nouveau style with its decorative façade and wrought-iron balconies. Nearby, the Casa Cervantes stands out with its colorful tiles and ornate elements. These structures reflect the city's prosperity during the mining boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Join a guided walking tour to learn about the history and design features of these buildings.
Local Dishes and Tapas Bars
Cartagena's cuisine features seafood from the Mediterranean and produce from Murcia's farmlands. Try caldero, the city's signature dish - a rice and fish stew traditionally eaten by fishermen. To experience local tapas culture, visit Calle Mayor in the evening. You can go from bar to bar, tasting small plates like marinaded anchovies, fried squid, and michirones (a local bean stew). Don't miss Asiático, a coffee drink unique to Cartagena that combines espresso with condensed milk, cognac, and cinnamon.
Beaches Near Cartagena
While known for its history, Cartagena also has several beaches for sunbathing and swimming. Cala Cortina, the city's urban beach, is a short drive from the center. This small cove with calm waters is good for a relaxed afternoon by the sea. For a more natural setting, visit Calblanque Regional Park, about 30 minutes from the city. The park has undeveloped beaches and hiking trails with Mediterranean views. It's also a protected area for local plants and animals, making it a good place to observe nature.
