Getsemani & Old Town Discovery: Walk & Ride

OVERVIEW

Explore two of the most atmospheric, historically important areas in Cartagena and come away with a remarkably in-depth understanding of their influence over the centuries. While walking through the Getsemani district, you will learn about the slaves that settled there after their emancipation in the mid-19th century. Many of the landmarks have been restored and repurposed such as Las Bovedas, a low-slung seaside shopping arcade that was once a dungeon. The many squares in Old Town are as charming as ever and still popular meeting places as you will discover while strolling through Plaza de Bolívar and Plaza de Santa Teresa. You will also have the opportunity to browse the Gold Museum, whose collection of gold, silver and ceramic artifacts is mostly pre-Columbian. A stop for photos at the 17th-century San Felipe fortress will offer an entirely perspective of Old Town as you will look out over the sea, as well.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the landmarks while walking and riding through Cartagena’s oldest districts.
• See outdoor murals that reflect the local Afro-Caribbean history in Getsemani.
• Spend free time shopping in an arcade that was once a notorious dungeon.
• Enjoy the serenity while strolling around the charming plazas in Old Town.
• Browse the impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts in the Gold Museum.
• Stop for photos of San Felipe, a 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage site fortress.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.