San Felipe de Barajas Castle

Together with the stone walls that surround Cartagena’s old town, the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is the largest Spanish fortification built in the Americas, visible just ahead. It’s an absolute must-see when visiting the city. Known as “the guardian of Cartagena,” the fortress was first established in the 16th century by Spanish colonists to fend off the many invasions the city faced, mainly from French and British forces. Built atop San Lázaro hill, the fortress took nearly three centuries to complete and served as a vital lookout point, offering a clear view of ships approaching the harbour. One of the most legendary chapters in its history is the Battle of Cartagena in March 1741, when 4,000 Spanish soldiers managed to defeat a British fleet of 254 ships and 28,000 men led by Admiral Edward Vernon. The Spanish held their ground against all odds. This victory not only saved Cartagena from British rule but also stopped the spread of the English language across Latin America. Instead, Spanish remains the dominant language here today. More of a military bunker than a romantic castle, San Felipe de Barajas is a labyrinth of tunnels, sentry posts, hidden passageways, and artillery platforms, still largely intact. A visit here is like stepping into the bold, dramatic days of conquest and resistance.