Nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena is a city bursting with historical and architectural treasures. Its UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed Old Town is a spectacular blend of colonial, republican, and modernist architecture. From 16th-century fortresses to vibrant neighbourhoods with colourful facades, Cartagena is an architectural playground.

Ideal for architecture enthusiasts and budget travellers, Cartagena’s compact layout and walkable streets make it perfect for backpackers, while its rich architectural history provides endless fascination for architecture lovers.

Why you should visit I hear you ask! Well in this guide, we highlight 10 unmissable architectural landmarks, each offering a unique perspective on Cartagena’s past and present and better still we are going to tell you why they are important and how to explore them. So strap in architecture lovers for our top 10 must see architectural marvels in Cartagena.

10 Must-See Architectural Marvels Cartagena No.1 to No.5

No.1. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Year of Construction: 1536–1657

Built by: Spanish Empire

Architect: Antonio de Arévalo (final phase)

Purpose: Defensive fortress

Why it's special: The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is one of the largest and most formidable Spanish colonial fortresses in South America. Perched on San Lázaro Hill, this stone structure was designed to protect the city from pirates and invading forces. Its complex system of tunnels and vantage points make it a fascinating site for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

What to explore: Backpackers can explore the maze of underground tunnels and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the fortress’ strategic design and engineering marvels, including its bastions and walls that have withstood centuries of attacks.

No.2. Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría

Year of Construction: 1577–1612

Built by: Catholic Church

Architect: Simón González (design influence)

Purpose: Catholic cathedral

Why it's special: As one of Cartagena’s most prominent landmarks, the Catedral de Santa Catalina is an exquisite example of Spanish colonial architecture. Its towering Baroque-style bell tower, added in the 18th century, has become a defining feature of Cartagena’s skyline. The cathedral’s construction was part of the city's growth as a significant colonial outpost.

What to explore: Backpackers can visit the cathedral for free, while architecture lovers will marvel at its intricate stonework and beautifully preserved facade. Step inside to appreciate the quiet grandeur and centuries-old craftsmanship of the interior.

No.3. Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición) 

Year of Construction: 1770

Built by: Spanish Crown

Architect: Unknown, typical colonial baroque style

Purpose: Seat of the Inquisition in Cartagena

Why it's special: The Palacio de la Inquisición is a prime example of Spanish colonial baroque architecture, complete with wooden balconies and grand entrance gates. Historically, this building housed the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena, where trials and investigations were conducted. Today, it serves as a museum, offering insights into the city’s darker past.

What to explore: Backpackers can explore the museum's exhibits, while architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the building’s symmetrical design, imposing facade, and beautifully crafted balconies.

No.4. Iglesia de San Pedro Claver

Year of Construction: 1580–1654

Built by: Jesuit Order

Architect: Unknown

Purpose: Jesuit church and monastery

Why it's special: Named after Saint Peter Claver, a Jesuit priest known as the “Slave of the Slaves,” this church is a significant symbol of Cartagena’s colonial history. Its Spanish colonial design is complemented by a serene courtyard filled with tropical plants, offering an oasis in the heart of the old town.

What to explore: Backpackers can visit the adjacent museum that tells the story of San Pedro Claver’s humanitarian work, while architecture lovers will appreciate the church’s Renaissance-style facade and impressive stone construction.

No.5. Teatro Adolfo Mejía (Teatro Heredia)

Year of Construction: 1911

Built by: Cartagena government

Architect: Luis Felipe Jaspe

Purpose: Cultural and performance venue

Why it's special: This Republican-style theater was inspired by the Teatro Tacón in Havana, Cuba. The Teatro Adolfo Mejía is known for its neoclassical design, with beautiful corinthian columns and a grand marble staircase. Its interiors are equally stunning, featuring ornate balconies and ceiling frescoes.

What to explore: Backpackers can catch a performance or tour the theater’s beautifully preserved interiors, while architecture lovers will admire its fusion of neoclassical elements and republican aesthetics.

10 Must-See Architectural Marvels Cartagena No.6 to No.10

No.6. Las Bóvedas 

Year of Construction: 1796

Built by: Spanish military

Architect: Antonio de Arévalo

Purpose: Originally military storage, later used as prisons

Why it's special: Las Bóvedas is a series of 23 archways built into the city’s fortification walls. These vaults were originally constructed as military storage units and later repurposed as jails during the civil wars. Today, they house artisanal shops and galleries, blending history with contemporary local commerce.

What to explore: Backpackers can enjoy browsing local handicrafts, while architecture lovers will appreciate the genius behind the vaulted design and its historical role in Cartagena’s defense system.

No. 7. Plaza de la Aduana 

Year of Construction: Originally built in the 16th century

Architect: Spanish colonial engineers

Purpose: Administrative and commercial centre during colonial times

Why it's special: Plaza de la Aduana is the largest and oldest square in Cartagena’s Old Town, serving as the administrative hub during the Spanish colonial period. This grand square was once the heart of Cartagena’s trading empire, with many of the city’s most important government buildings located here. The Aduana Building (Customs House), which gives the plaza its name, still stands today and is a prime example of colonial-era civic architecture.

What to explore: Backpackers will love the lively, open atmosphere of the plaza, where street performers and artisans often gather. Architecture lovers will be captivated by the colonial elegance of the surrounding buildings, including the well-preserved Aduana Building and the statue of Christopher Columbus in the centre of the square. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely exploration of Cartagena’s history.

No.8. Convento de la Popa 

Year of Construction: 1607

Built by: Catholic Church

Architect: Unknown

Purpose: Monastery and place of worship

Why it's special: Perched atop the highest hill in Cartagena, the Convento de la Popa offers the best panoramic views of the city and coastline. This 17th-century convent is notable for its colonial architecture, which includes a beautiful chapel and an interior courtyard filled with flowers. The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin of La Candelaria, the patron saint of Cartagena.

What to explore: Backpackers can hike up to the convent, while architecture lovers will appreciate the colonial charm and peaceful atmosphere. The chapel’s ornate altar and relics are also worth exploring.

No.9. Getsemaní Neighborhood 

Year of Establishment: Dates back to the 16th century

Architectural Style: Colonial with modern urban renovations

Why it's special: Once a working-class neighborhood, Getsemaní has transformed into one of Cartagena’s most vibrant cultural areas, full of colorful colonial houses, lively street art, and buzzing cafes. The neighborhood’s architecture is a blend of historic colonial structures with modern street culture, offering a unique juxtaposition of old and new.

What to explore: Backpackers will love the vibrant streets and affordable eateries, while architecture lovers can marvel at the colonial buildings and vibrant murals that tell the story of Cartagena’s cultural transformation.

No.10. Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower) 

Year of Construction: 1601 (reconstructed in 1888)

Built by: Spanish Empire

Architect: Juan de Herrera y Sotomayor

Purpose: Main city gate and clock tower

Why it's special: As the main entrance to Cartagena’s Old Town, the Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower) is an iconic symbol of the city. Originally part of the fortifications surrounding Cartagena, the tower underwent reconstruction and gained its distinctive yellow facade and clock in the 19th century.

What to explore: Backpackers can walk through the gate into the historic city center, while architecture lovers will appreciate the clock tower’s role in Cartagena’s urban defense and its beautifully preserved colonial structure.

10 Must-See Architectural Marvels Cartegena Map

10 Must-See Architectural Marvels Cartagena Final Thoughts

Cartagena’s architectural marvels offer a captivating journey through Colombian history, from its Spanish colonial roots to modern landmarks. Backpackers will find these sites easily accessible and perfect for immersive exploration with a full blend of styles and eras that make the city so unique. Be sure to add these 10 unmissable landmarks to your travel itinerary to fully experience the beauty and history of Cartagena’s architecture.

Ready to explore Cartagena’s architectural wonders? Whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker or an avid architecture lover, these landmarks are sure to enhance your journey through this historic city. Start planning your trip today and dive into the architectural treasures that make Cartagena one of Colombia’s most captivating destinations.

For the curious explorer