San Felipe de Barajas Fort on Postcard

@travelleisure

"A beautiful coastal city in Colombia known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning colonial architecture." - Nneya Richards Nneya Richards Nneya Richards is a New York City-based fashion and travel writer and public speaker. She is a frequent contributor to publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Vogue, and PopSugar, and

15 Best Solo Travel Essentials for Seniors

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@afar

"Castillo San Felipe de Barajas A short walk from the city sits imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, covering almost the whole of San Lázaro Hill, 135 feet above sea level. The castillo bit is something of a misnomer, as the structure is not technically a castle but a fort; it happens to be one of the most impressive the Spanish ever built, resisting a number of land and sea attacks. Allegedly its tunnel system was engineered so that the slightest sound anywhere within it would reverberate a warning of approaching danger or attempted escape. Audio guides, available in English, Spanish, and other languages, recount the full story. The castle also happens to be one of the best spots in the city from which to watch the sunset. By Travesías"

Essential Guide to Cartagena

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Lex Emyouesti

Google

As I checked, everything was already said: it's too steep, the best place for photos, and so on. It's definitely worth a short visit while in town. The rest is just a personal decision based on how much time you want to give, not to mention you have to pay for it, but that would not be an issue for anyone who came all the way here.

MUSEUM HAUS

Google

Best view of Cartagena. The walk upwards is not as bad as some say, if I scroll through the reviews. Yes, sunscreen is a thing. Best to go for a guided tour as information is limited if you only read the signs. The restrooms are well maintained, as is the whole fort. At the top there is a small shop and on your way up there are some vendors with water/heads/caps/shirts etc.

Emil Andersen

Google

The view on the top is a perfect spot for photos, as you can get a good view of the entire city. Moreover, the castle contains a small maze of corridors that lead you to different parts of the castle. Note: if you follow one of the corridors it will lead you to an opening of the castle where you will spot a small house with a "medical" sign on the door. This door leads to a small theater telling you about the history of the castle, the wars and the aftermath. The movie had English subtitles. This was very insightful! Lastly, remember sunscreen and a hat, especially during the middle of the day.

Richard Cotton

Google

San Felipe de Barajas isn't just a fort; it's a labyrinth of history and mystery. Climbing through its tunnels feels like you're a character in a pirate adventure, half-expecting to stumble upon hidden treasures or secret escape routes. The view from the top? Absolutely breathtaking, giving you a panoramic sweep of Cartagena that's both humbling and exhilarating. A must-visit for anyone who loves history, architecture, or simply a good story.

Roberta Winter

Google

At first glance, from a distance the sheer size of the walls of this fortress are reminiscent of the Great Wall. Being able to walk along the battlements and explore the tunnels is amazing. The views from the top of beautiful Cartagena are your reward. Cartagena was the equivalent of the Venice of South America in the fifteen century.

Jay BouncingPlaces (BOUNCINGPLACES)

Google

San Felipe de Barajas Fort eas a great elway to spend 2 hours at a slow pace. Highly recommend you buy a water across the street BEFORE you enter through the gate. Gets hot and shade us limited. Once inside there are no food vendors and youcan'tt leave. Bring an umbrella a hat and sunblock! The cost was: Adults 33 000 Colombian 29 000 Children 14 000 Tours for a fee $$$$ You can buy tickets at the gate up to 15 minute wait during the week. Line moves fast Enjoy this incredible well preserved magnificent piece of history. Walk through tunnels and watch your head but avoid them when they are full of tours as it's claustrophobic for some. Please follow @bouncingplaces on YOUTUBE as It helps support the channel so I can continue sharing amazing places like this to eat and fun adventures as I travel the world full time 🌎 🙏 See you in the next one! Keep on Bouncing Baby 😎❤️👍💯

Kenneth Velandia

Google

The historic Castle 🏰 has stood by the sea for centuries. While the walls, lighting, and restrooms may not be state-of-the-art, its timeless design and rich history make it well worth a visit. Consider a guided tour for a deeper understanding of each section. The tour takes about 1.5 hours, and you'll enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

Roberto Martins

Google

The fort is majestic and a very interesting experience. The negative point is that there are no signs explaining what you are looking at. The only thing that helped make a little sense of the history of the place was the movie played in the former hospital, that we stumbled upon by accident... This place deserved more care on the part of the administrators.

Lex Emyouesti

Google

As I checked, everything was already said: it's too steep, the best place for photos, and so on. It's definitely worth a short visit while in town. The rest is just a personal decision based on how much time you want to give, not to mention you have to pay for it, but that would not be an issue for anyone who came all the way here.

MUSEUM HAUS

Google

Best view of Cartagena. The walk upwards is not as bad as some say, if I scroll through the reviews. Yes, sunscreen is a thing. Best to go for a guided tour as information is limited if you only read the signs. The restrooms are well maintained, as is the whole fort. At the top there is a small shop and on your way up there are some vendors with water/heads/caps/shirts etc.

Emil Andersen

Google

The view on the top is a perfect spot for photos, as you can get a good view of the entire city. Moreover, the castle contains a small maze of corridors that lead you to different parts of the castle. Note: if you follow one of the corridors it will lead you to an opening of the castle where you will spot a small house with a "medical" sign on the door. This door leads to a small theater telling you about the history of the castle, the wars and the aftermath. The movie had English subtitles. This was very insightful! Lastly, remember sunscreen and a hat, especially during the middle of the day.

Richard Cotton

Google

San Felipe de Barajas isn't just a fort; it's a labyrinth of history and mystery. Climbing through its tunnels feels like you're a character in a pirate adventure, half-expecting to stumble upon hidden treasures or secret escape routes. The view from the top? Absolutely breathtaking, giving you a panoramic sweep of Cartagena that's both humbling and exhilarating. A must-visit for anyone who loves history, architecture, or simply a good story.

Roberta Winter

Google

At first glance, from a distance the sheer size of the walls of this fortress are reminiscent of the Great Wall. Being able to walk along the battlements and explore the tunnels is amazing. The views from the top of beautiful Cartagena are your reward. Cartagena was the equivalent of the Venice of South America in the fifteen century.

Jay BouncingPlaces (BOUNCINGPLACES)

Google

San Felipe de Barajas Fort eas a great elway to spend 2 hours at a slow pace. Highly recommend you buy a water across the street BEFORE you enter through the gate. Gets hot and shade us limited. Once inside there are no food vendors and youcan'tt leave. Bring an umbrella a hat and sunblock! The cost was: Adults 33 000 Colombian 29 000 Children 14 000 Tours for a fee $$$$ You can buy tickets at the gate up to 15 minute wait during the week. Line moves fast Enjoy this incredible well preserved magnificent piece of history. Walk through tunnels and watch your head but avoid them when they are full of tours as it's claustrophobic for some. Please follow @bouncingplaces on YOUTUBE as It helps support the channel so I can continue sharing amazing places like this to eat and fun adventures as I travel the world full time 🌎 🙏 See you in the next one! Keep on Bouncing Baby 😎❤️👍💯

Kenneth Velandia

Google

The historic Castle 🏰 has stood by the sea for centuries. While the walls, lighting, and restrooms may not be state-of-the-art, its timeless design and rich history make it well worth a visit. Consider a guided tour for a deeper understanding of each section. The tour takes about 1.5 hours, and you'll enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

Roberto Martins

Google

The fort is majestic and a very interesting experience. The negative point is that there are no signs explaining what you are looking at. The only thing that helped make a little sense of the history of the place was the movie played in the former hospital, that we stumbled upon by accident... This place deserved more care on the part of the administrators.

San Felipe de Barajas Fort

San Felipe de Barajas Fort

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