Explore the Historic San Felipe de Barajas Fort
Discover the majestic San Felipe de Barajas Fort in Cartagena, a historical fortress with stunning views and rich colonial history.
A brief summary to San Felipe de Barajas Fort
- La Boquilla, Cartagena, Cartagena Province, Cielo mar, Bolivar, CO
- +5756421293
San Felipe de Barajas Fort is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Cartagena, Colombia, and a testament to the city’s colonial history. Constructed during the 16th century, this fortress was built to protect the city from invasions by pirates and rival nations. Its strategic location on a hill provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the vibrant city below. As you wander through its massive walls and tunnels, you can almost hear the echoes of history and the tales of battles fought long ago. The fort's intricate design, featuring bastions and a moat, showcases the advanced military architecture of its time. Visitors to San Felipe de Barajas Fort can explore its extensive grounds, which include various lookout points and artillery placements. The fort also houses exhibits that delve into the history of Cartagena and its role as a key port in the Spanish Empire. Guides are available for those who wish to gain deeper insights into the fort's storied past. It is recommended to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the stunning sunset views. The fort is open every day from 7 AM to 6 PM, making it accessible for all travelers. Don’t forget your camera, as the views are truly breathtaking, and the history is both rich and captivating.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the fort in peace.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking and exploring to do.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong during the day.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more immersive experience and detailed history.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Leticia, start by heading southeast on Carrera 9 towards Calle 10. Continue on this road until you reach the intersection with Avenida 20 de Julio. Turn left onto Avenida 20 de Julio and follow it until you reach the intersection with Calle 10. Turn right onto Calle 10, which will lead you towards the main exit of Leticia. Continue on this road for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the border with Colombia and enter Cartagena. Follow the signs directing you to La Boquilla. The San Felipe de Barajas Fort is located in Cielo Mar, near La Boquilla. Parking is available near the fort.
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Public Transportation
To reach San Felipe de Barajas Fort via public transport, first take a local bus from Leticia to Cartagena. The bus station in Leticia is located at Calle 12 with Carrera 6. Look for buses that are marked for Cartagena, as they will take you directly to the city. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in Cartagena, you can take a taxi or a local bus to La Boquilla. Inform the driver you want to go to San Felipe de Barajas Fort. Expect to pay around 10,000 COP for the bus and approximately 15,000 COP for the taxi fare once in Cartagena.
Attractions Nearby to San Felipe de Barajas Fort
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PLAZA San Felipe
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Estatua Blas de Lezo y Olavarrieta
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Reloj Solar
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Parque Reloj Solar
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Las Botas Viejas
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TURTLES STREET
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Church of San Roque
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COLONIAL HOUSE STREET TURTLE
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Free Biking Tour Cartagena
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Secret Rooftop-realexperience
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STREET OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
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Espíritu Del Manglar Park
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Barrio Getsemaní Cartagena Bolívar
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Monumento India Catalina
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Calle Paco
Landmarks nearby to San Felipe de Barajas Fort
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Street Art
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El más hermoso callejon
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Calle de La Sierpe
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Getsemaní
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Taroa adventures
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Plazuela del Pozo
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STREET QUERO
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Transform with Giorgy
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Centenario Park
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Colombia Experience, Agencia de Tours en Cartagena
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Camellón de los Mártires
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Walls of Cartagena
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Eureka Coffee House
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Centro de Cartagena, Bolívar
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CALLE DEL TABLÓN