Cartagena Spain Day 25

 Visiting many of the local towns has forced us to brush up on our Spanish history! Yesterday, we spent the day in  Cartagena, a little gem, with a history going back to the Phoenicians! This is the point on the continent where Hannibal landed to march those elephants over the Pyrenees toward Rome. It has hosted the  Romans, Visigoths, Moors, Hapsburgs, Bourbons, and most recently the American Sixth Fleet. But after our navy pulled out, the city found itself in a real decline. It was then that they looked to tourism and made serious efforts to restore so much of its rich and diverse history. It's a pleasure to visit, very walkable, and full of historical interest and public art. Still largely undiscovered, it remains much of its authenticity and charm.

The most spectacular of its sights is the Roman Amphitheater, built in the first and second century BC!
Its museum has artifacts going back to that time, as well as some from subsequent occupations over the centuries. You can literally reach out and touch Roman artifacts!

Just amazing!

Jeff explores the stage area

one way to the top of the castle

Next door to the theater is the castle perched high over the city with a commanding 360 degree view.  The building was remodeled by its many occupants over the centuries,  and contains a terrific museum describing these changes.you can either walk to the top or take a lift. We opted for the lift ride down.

interior of the castle with explanation of its changes over the centuries

the lift

view of the city below

After a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, and a delicious lunch, we realized that it was almost 5PM and time to head home. We could easily have spent more than a day here, and hope someday to return.
To see more pictures of Cartagena, click on this link. Enjoy!