Plaza Santo Domingo
#3 in Best Things To Do in Cartagena
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- 5.0Value
- 3.5Food Scene
- 4.0Atmosphere
The Plaza Santo Domingo is primarily known as the home of the bronze statue La Gorda Gertrudis, which was created by the famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The popular square is located in the Old City Walls, and it has a macabre history as a place for execution. Thankfully, the area has transcended its morbid past, and the most notorious interactions you'll experience now are scammers selling fake IDs.
Past travelers appreciated the cultural significance of the Botero statue, as well as the array of souvenirs for purchase. A handful of travelers expressed disappointment that the plaza is so crowded during the day, making it hard to move around.
As an outdoor attraction, Plaza Santo Domingo is open 24/7. It's best to plan a visit here during the evening, as many restaurants and bars surround the plaza, making it an excellent place for weary travelers to relax.
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2 of 11#1 Old City Walls
Cartagena's most famous attraction, the city's historic walls, began construction on the eastern edge of the city in 1586 and finished in 1796. Fast forward to 1984 and the iconic walls were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Now, the Walled City of Cartagena draws travelers hoping to explore its colonial architecture and peruse the wares of its numerous street vendors.
Recent travelers appreciated the area's historic charm, complete with horse-drawn carriages. They recommend taking your time in the walled city, as you can easily spend a full day wandering its narrow streets. To make sure you don't miss any of the top sites, sign up for one of the area's many walking tours. The only downside? Recent visitors warn about the street vendors who persistently hawk their wares.
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