Cartagena

Very few European cities have the rich and monumental history that is possessed by Cartagena.

It was founded almost 2,300 years ago under the name of Quart Hadast. It is a name we know today is derived from its Latin origins, Cartago Nova.

The rich legacy of Cartagena stretches along the shores of its marina, a maritime legend and hugely important during the War of Spanish Succession and the in the War of Independence. The Sea Wall marks the boundaries of the historic quarter. Nearby is the Military Arsenal, its walls house the only entrance gate to the city which still stands today.

Caragena's seafaring history is evident in many areas and in its monuments and architecture. Visitors can enjoy pondering over the prototype submarine designed by the inventor from Cartagena Isaac Peral or the National Museum of Maritime Archaeology which houses the National Centre of Underwater Archaeological Investigation.

The entrance to the town centre is dominated by the Palacio Consistorial or City Hall, a gem of modernist architecture.

Amongst the various places of interest ton offer are the Catedral Vieja (the Old Cathedral) or the Cathedral of Santa Maria, whose remains stand on the steps of a Roman Theatre discovered in 1987. This structure actually dates back to the 1st century BC and is one of the most important of its kind in Spain.

Many of the pieces found on this site can be seen in the Municipal Archaeological Museum. In Torres Park the medieval Castillo de la Concepcion, whose ruins are surrounded by fine gardens, commands a splendid view of the city and harbor. The Byzantine Wall, which despite its name, is also Roman and is what's left of the old Roman road. Dont forget to also visit the Castle of la Concepcion, a fortress of Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs and Castilians.

As well having an abundance of culture Cartagena is also naturally blessed with a coastline that is nothing short of spectacular. One of its finer beaches, Calblanque beach - is part of a designated nature reserve.