Facts for Kids

Cartagena is a colorful city located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia 🇨🇴. It has beautiful beaches and a rich history. Founded in 1533 by the Spanish explorer Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena played an important role in trade and military defense during colonial times. Today, it's known for its amazing architecture, with old stone walls and cobblestone streets 🌆. The city is also famous for its vibrant festivals and delicious food, making it a fun place to visit and explore. With a tropical climate, you can enjoy sunshine and warm weather almost all year round! ☀

️🏖️

Cartagena loves sports! ⚽

The most popular sport is soccer, and many local teams compete in various leagues. The Estadio Jaime Morón is where fans come together to cheer for their favorite teams, creating a fun and noisy atmosphere 🎉. Apart from soccer, other sports like basketball, baseball, and volleyball are also enjoyed by locals. Due to its beautiful beaches, water sports like swimming, snorkeling, and jet skiing are popular pastimes 🌊. The city also hosts events and tournaments, encouraging children to stay active and healthy while having fun with their friends! 🏐

Cartagena’s cuisine is full of delicious flavors 🌮! One of the most popular dishes is “arepas,” a tasty corn cake often filled with cheese or meat. You can also enjoy “ceviche,” a dish made of fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions and spices 🍋. Another local favorite is “patacones,” crispy green plantains served with various dips. Cartagena is famous for its tropical fruits, like mangos and coconut 🌴, and delicious fresh seafood, like shrimp and fish. Don’t forget to try “limonada de coco,” a refreshing coconut lemonade, perfect for cooling down on a hot day! 🥥

Cartagena has a strong economy with many important industries 💼. One of the main sources of income is tourism, as people from all over the world visit the beautiful city. The port of Cartagena is also one of the busiest in Colombia, handling containers and fishing 🐟. Many businesses focus on seafood, as the city is known for its fresh catches. Agriculture plays a part as well, with local farms growing tropical fruits like mangoes and bananas 🍌. In recent years, Cartagena has developed its technology and construction sectors, helping to create more jobs for the people living there. 🌱

The history of Cartagena is exciting and full of adventure 🚢! When it was founded in 1533, it quickly became an important port for ships carrying gold and other treasures to Spain. This made the city a target for pirates. The famous pirate Sir Francis Drake even attacked Cartagena in 1586! To protect itself, Cartagena built massive walls, which you can still see today 🏰. Over the years, Cartagena has witnessed many battles and events. In 1821, it became part of the newly independent nation of Colombia, and today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historic importance! 🌍

Tourism is a big part of Cartagena’s economy and attracts millions of visitors every year 🌏. The city's historical center, with its colorful buildings and charming plazas, is a must-see! Visitors love exploring the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a giant fortress built to protect the city from pirates ⚔️. Tourists can also enjoy beautiful beaches, such as Playa Blanca, where they can swim and relax. The local markets offer unique crafts and tasty food to try. Cartagena is also a cruise ship destination, making it easy for travelers to visit and experience all the exciting sights! 🛳

️

Education in Cartagena is vital for the city’s future 🌟. There are many schools for children of all ages, and both public and private options are available. Notable institutions include the Universidad de Cartagena, which offers higher education opportunities and trains future leaders. Several educational programs focus on art, science, and technology 🧪, helping students prepare for a bright future. In recent years, the government has worked to improve access to education, providing resources and support for schools. Education is essential to promoting literacy and empowering children in Cartagena to follow their dreams! 📚

Cartagena is situated in the Bolivar department, right by the Caribbean Sea 🌊. It's surrounded by warm, sandy beaches, like Bocagrande and Playa Blanca, where people love to swim and play. The city is built on a small peninsula and has a mix of hills and flat areas. The nearby Rosario Islands are a beautiful spot for snorkeling, as they have colorful coral reefs and many fish 🐠. Cartagena experiences two main seasons: a wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. It's the perfect place to enjoy the warm weather and ocean! 🌴

Art and music thrive in Cartagena, showcasing the city's vibrant culture 🎨. Many artists can be seen painting colorful murals on walls around the city, depicting its history and life. The city is famous for its lively music, particularly genres like cumbia and salsa, which often fills the streets during festivals 🎶. There are also numerous art galleries and studios where visitors can see local artwork. The city's theaters host various performances, including traditional dances that bring stories to life. Cartagena's arts scene is full of energy and creativity, making it a great place to experience Colombian culture! 🎭

Cartagena is rich in culture, with a mix of Spanish, African, and Indigenous influences 🎨. The city celebrates several colorful festivals throughout the year. One of the biggest is the Cartagena International Music Festival, where musicians from all over the world play beautiful classical music 🎶. Another exciting event is the Festival of the Sea, celebrating the ocean with parades, music, and dancing. Locals share traditional dances like the cumbia and mapalé, and delicious local cuisine is enjoyed during these celebrations. Cartagena's vibrant culture is evident in its lively music, dance, and costumes that light up the streets! 🎉