CRUISING - Day 4 - CARTAGENA SPAIN

If it's Friday it must be Cartagena!  We'll be here from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., and it looks as though there are plenty of things to see and lots of great views.  Here's a little history: 

The Phoenicians, Romans and Moors all used Cartagena for its natural deep-water harbor. The entrance from the Mediterranean is protected by rocky fortified headlands that act like claws, pincering enemy ships. Inside this perfect sea port, a walled city was built. The city walls remained intact until the beginning of the 20th century, creating a dense historic center.

Although there are some ruins from the Carthaginian ages, such as the remains of the Punic rampart (built in 227 B.C. with the foundation of the city), most of its oldest monuments date from the ages of the Roman Empire when Cartagena flourished.  The view from La Concepció Castle takes in great views of the old bull ring, built on top of a Roman gladiatorial arena, the 18th-century autopsy theatre and the interior of the old cathedral.

The 18th century la Navidad was built to protect the entrance to the port of Cartagena.  It was restored in 2006 as part of the ongoing project to make Cartagena more tourist-friendly. From the hill above the castle are wonderful views of the great natural  harbor and its city.

This sounds like a relaxing day without too much of an agenda and plenty of photo opportunities!