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The historic city of Cartagena is a pearl in the Murcia region. Various aspects of its rich history can be followed during two-hour walks. Free and with a guide.
A popular tour is along the remains from the time of Roman rule since the third century. And Cartagena is full of interesting evidence from that time. Everywhere in the streets and on squares, buildings breathe the atmosphere of that time. The walk continues along the old Punic walls and the district of the Roman Forum on the Molinete hill. A logical highlight for many is a look at the Roman theater and the accompanying museum. The lovingly restored theater with a capacity of 6,000 people has undergone a lot in the 2,000 years since it was built. Other cultures (Visigoths, Moors and Christians) left their mark on the theater. In the museum, this development can be followed well by means of displays and audio-visuals. For extensive information about this pearl in the crown of Cartagena, see here.
A highlight is the Casa de la Fortuna. This is a well-preserved home of a wealthy merchant from that time. Together with the information in the museum section, visitors get a good idea of how decadent life was for the wealthy Romans at that time.
Another subject of Cartagena's history is discussed during a visit to the port area. Two important moments determined the great importance of the port city. In the 16th century, Cartagena was chosen as the center for the Royal Galleys of Spain. Two centuries later, the decision was added to choose the city as the maritime capital of the navy. This last decision led to the construction of castles, forts and defensive walls.
During the walk, a visit is also made to the naval museum. There, the first electrically powered submarine can be admired. In the national museum of archaeology, there are all kinds of objects to see. But the pride here is the wreck of an old galleon.
There is also a free guided walk along modernist Cartagena. The emphasis here is on the many magnificent buildings from the 19th century. At that time, the city returned to prosperity after a long and rather obscure past. As an important port city and thanks to the exploitation of all kinds of minerals, there was plenty of money to build magnificent buildings with majestic facades.
Although the walks are free, everywhere where entrance fees are charged, walkers pay for them.
