Cartagena, the jewel of the Colombian Caribbean, is not only recognized for its beaches, music, food, walls and sunsets, but also for its immense spiritual and architectural wealth. La Heroica, cradle of stories, legends and a faith that has marked its identity since its foundation, is positioned as an epicenter for religious tourism.
“It was a debt that we had with the world, with our city and with Colombia,” says Father Julio César Muñoz, rector of the Cathedral and director of the Tourism Ministry. Cartagena seeks to rescue and share its historical, spiritual and architectural legacy under a responsible tourism approach. This effort invites visitors to experience a deep connection with Cartagena faith and culture, while promoting the preservation of this invaluable heritage.
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A journey through the faith and history of Cartagena
The tour of the churches of Cartagena is a trip that combines history and spirituality. Each temple, with its imposing architecture and mystical air, keeps secrets of centuries and offers an experience that touches the soul, both to those seeking solace and to the curious eyes of travelers. Among the most emblematic places, the following stand out:
Church of Santo Domingo, Cartagena de Indias
In the heart of the walled city of Cartagena, one of its most venerable and symbolic buildings stands majestically. It was founded in 1578 by the Dominican friars, who arrived in the New Kingdom of Granada with the mission of evangelizing the local population. Its architecture is a reflection of the European styles brought by the colonizers. Among its peculiarities stands out the inclination of its tower, which, according to some historians, was due to problems with the foundations, a detail that adds a unique character.
This church is a true treasure of art and devotion. His Christ, known as the “Christ of Inspiration,” is a work loaded with symbolism. It is said to have been carved by an angel and, over time, its colors have darkened to reflect the skin tone of the people of Cartagena, a testament to the passing of the years and the spiritual closeness of the image to the local community. Furthermore, the altar, built with effort by the community, loaded with baroque details, is an example of European artistic influence and the skill of the artisans who participated in its construction.
Cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Cartagena de Indias
This majestic Roman cathedral impresses with its architecture and fuses the splendor of the Renaissance with deep colonial roots. Built in 1577 until the end of 1612includes the largest wooden vault in the city, although there is no documentary evidence, it is said to store the remains of more than 16,000 colonial bodies.
This makes it a place of meditation and singular energy, but it also awakens many emotions. “The believers enter and cry proclaiming mercy for Christ,” says Father Muñoz. The prayers, moans and tears of the faithful fill the room, creating an atmosphere of devotion that transcends words. Despite having been shelled by pirates in the past, the cathedral remains a symbol of resilience and faith.
Church of San Pedro Claver, Cartagena de Indias
Built between the centuries XVI and XVIIIthis Greco-Roman Jesuit church keeps the remains of Saint Peter Claverthe “The Slave of Slaves.” His bones, displayed in a reliquary adorned with a golden mantle, are a living testimony to his legacy of compassion and justice. In addition, the church has the only organ in the city, a gift from the Pope Leo XIIIwhich still resonates with the force of history.
Father Rafael López Castro, also a priest of the Archdiocese of Cartagena, highlights that “to talk about Cartagena without talking about the religious presence and the importance of faith since the constitution of the city, would not be talking about the identity of the Cartagena.” This religious tourism not only seeks to preserve material and cultural heritage, but also to transmit hope and spirituality. It is an opportunity for visitors to experience the presence of God and contribute to the preservation of this legacy for future generations.
In each church there is a story that whispers to the soul, a serenity that invites the heart to find the peace it seeks. Walking through its corridors, a silent embrace of tradition, art and devotion is revealed, which ignites a spark of deep connection with our spirituality.
Cartagena offers much more than a trip; It is an invitation to reflect, connect and renew the spirit. From now on, its temples and its people await with open arms to all those willing to discover this profound dimension of the city. As Father Muñoz says: “May God bless you and we are waiting for you in Cartagena.”
Continue reading: Music, history and emotions: this was the closing of the XIX Cartagena Music Festival 2025
*Cristina Rodríguez travels at the invitation of the Cartagena Music Festival and Fontur.
