Showing 1-5 of 5 results
-
Monumento a la India Catalina
The Monumento a la India Catalina at the main entrance to the old town from the mainland is a tribute to the Carib Indians, the group that inhabited this land before the Spanish Conquest. The lovely bronze statue depicts Catalina, a beautiful Carib Indian woman who served as interpreter to Pedro de Heredia upon the arrival of the Spaniards. The statue was forged in 1974 by Eladio Gil, a Spanish sculptor living in Cartagena.
-
Plaza de Bolívar
Formerly the Plaza de Inquisición, the plaza, or rather a tiny park, is surrounded by some of the city's most elegant balconied colonial buildings. As expected, a statue of Simón Bolívar stands in the middle of the plaza.
-
Plaza de la Aduana
This is the largest and oldest square in the old town and was used as a parade ground. In colonial times all the important governmental and administrative buildings were here. The old Royal Customs House was restored and is now the City Hall. A statue of Christopher Columbus stands in the center of the square.
-
Plaza de los Coches
Previously known as Plaza de la Yerba, the triangular Plaza de los Coches just behind Puerta del Reloj was once used as a slave market. It is lined with old balconied houses with colonial arches at ground level. The arcaded walkway, known as El Portal de los Dulces, is today lined with confectionery stands selling local sweets. The statue of the city's founder, Pedro de Heredia, is in the middle of the plaza.
-
Puerta del Reloj
Originally called the Boca del Puente, this was the main gateway to the inner walled town and was linked to Getsemaní (the outer walled town) by a drawbridge over the moat. The side arches of the gate, which are now open as walkways, were previously used as a chapel and armory. The republican-style tower, complete with a four-sided clock, was added in 1888.
Showing 1-5 of 5 results
