Official Language:
Spanish
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Currency:
EUR
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Population:
Approximately 900,000 people call Cartagena home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Cartagena Spain:
Summers are hot inland with cloudy skies along coast. This region of Spain has a warm, temperate climate with very little rainfall and very few cold days. Summer months have no rain and constant sunshine with an average day time temperature of 92°F/33°C degrees. Winter months have an average temperature of 55°F/13°C with plenty of sunshine still to be enjoyed. Spring and autumn have a very pleasant average temperature of 68°F/20°C.
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Cartagena is located in southeast Spain, the coast of Murcia on Spain's Levant coast. To the northeast is the famous beach and watersports resort area of Mar Menor. Cartagena was founded in 221 BC by Hasdrubal, who was the leader of the Carthaginians. In AD 425 Cartagena was restored by the Moors during their occupation of Spain, later becoming part of the kingdom of Spain. Although a small city, it is interesting. Set in a deep bay with a natural harbour,Cartagena is a small port city that has only recently begun to attract travelers. This quiet, beautiful town has managed to stay relatively tourist-free over the years, but the secret is out; Cartagena is a great place to see. Located 29 miles south of Murcia, the locals are friendly and hospitable. This magnificent city is known for having some of the best weather in all of Spain. Cartagena is warm and dry virtually the entire year. It is a fabulous place to visit anytime, but Cartagena is especially pleasant in the spring and fall. It has a mild climate that is perfect for traveling throughout the region. The weather almost never becomes too hot or uncomfortable, and the sights and smells of the land are marvelous.
In the 3rd century B.C., the Carthaginians founded Cartagena. The city possesses an extremely rich history and culture. It is also Spain's main naval base, in part because of its ideal location. Positioned right on the Atlantic, many of the country's cities and ports are quite accessible from Cartagena.
The landscaped squares of Cartagena are so magnificent that you can spend hours just sitting and looking. This is an enormously popular activity, and enjoying a Spanish snack while relaxing in one of the squares is a cherished pastime for locals and tourists alike. Do not be alarmed if you find yourself admiring one of the squares for much longer than you would have anticipated. Many of the boulevards in Almeria are lined with gorgeous palm trees, creating shade and a crisp, clean atmosphere. Cartagena has remained relatively unchanged over the decades. Modern apartment sections have been added to the suburbs because of all of the recent tourism. The buildings and religious structures of the city add to its wonderful culture, and a walking tour of Cartagena is great fun.
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Cartagena (tel. 968/325-800) located at Plaza Heroes de Cavite. From there, you can walk to the downtown region, or hail a cab. Most people find that Cartagena is a terrific walking city. However, if you desire motorized transportation, you can find taxis waiting for you at the port, or you can call one to pick you up (968/531-313). Or, you can rent a car while in town. Contact Costa Calida (tel. 968/515-617), located at Avda. De Colon, 124.
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Attractions |
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National Museum of Underwater Archaeology:
Together with the Port Foundation building provide an interesting cultural attraction.
Municipal Archaeological Museum of Cartagena:
The center of archaeological activities of the city and its region. The first museum, founded in 1943.
The Museo Salzillo:
which is located on Plaza San Agustin, (968/291-893) features the fascinating collection of Francisco Salzillo's haunting yet brilliant polychrome carvings. This is an extremely interesting site, and these figures are carried every Easter during the religious processions.
The Alcazaba Fortress:
In nearby Almeria dominates with its grand size and imposing location. This great structure was built by Caliph Abdar-Rhaman I, and the bell tower was constructed by Carlos III. This was one of the supreme bell towers in all the land, and from the top of the fortress the view is unbelievable. You will be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the port and the entire city. In 1522, and then again in 1560, the fortress was damaged by a series of earthquakes. The tremors of 1560 left the fort almost in ruins, and it was rendered useless as a military base. It has been renovated only enough to get a true sense of how impressive an edifice it once was.
The cathedral:
which was made to look like castle by the presence of buttressed towers, stands right below the Alcazaba. In the 16th century, Barbary pirates raided the area frequently, and the city constructed many defenses to aid in fending off intruders. The general design of the cathedral is Gothic, complemented by classical touches on the doorways.
Other attrractions:
of interest include the Church of Santa Maria La Vieja, the Torre Ciega, Torres Park and the Castle de la Concepcion. One of the most attractive areas in the city is its port, where you will find the Modernist Town Hall, many monuments, such as the one dedicated to the Heroes of Cavite, Santiago de Cuba and the First submarine in the world ever to be launched. Golf, water sports and horse back riding are the most popular activities. You will notice the exotic flowers and tall palm trees that provide a beautiful backdrop to the sparkeling Spanish beaches and warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Tennis is quite popular in Cartagena, and there are numerous great courts within the city walls. Hotel Eurotennis, located in Villajoyosa (96/589-1250) is one of the most popular facilities. Club de Tenis V. Alegre, which is located on Paraje El Olive Street in Huercal de Almeria, (950/300-390) is another hot spot for some tennis action. This club is particularly popular among doubles players. In addition, there are plenty of seats for your family and friends to cheer you on as you tempt fate against one of the local pros. Golf is becoming increasingly popular in Spain, and Club de Golf Don Cayo is one of the premier sites. Don Cayo is located on Conde de Altea 49 (96/584-8046) in nearby Almeria. La Manga Club in Los Belones (968/137-234) features two 18-hole courses that are set perfectly amongst aesthetic surroundings. nuts and almonds.
Murcia:
Discover the delightful architecture of the genteel old town, including the Casino and Cathedral with its unmistakable tower. One of the most important historic buildings in the city, it is a fascinating mixture of styles. Within its artistic offering the Fine Arts Section of the Museum of Murcia and the Salzillo Museum, where one can find this sculptor's beautiful carvings.
Cartagena City Tour:
An introduction to the highlights of Cartagena. Visit the old town and discover the Roman Theatre and the castle of the 'Conception'. From here, there are wonderful views over the city and port. In the old town there are many different styles of architecture, including the Byzantine rampart.
Mar Menor:
With its 170 square kilometres of surface area and its 73 kilometres coast, the Mar Menor is the largest lagoon in Europe. In this place the sun shines 320 days a year, and this, together with a water temperature that in winter is close to 18ºC (64ºF) allows all types of nautical sports to be enjoyed all year round. Visit Cabo de Palos (Palos Cape), a typical Mediterranean diet, which combines products from land and sea.
Caravaca:
Caravaca was a border fortress between the Muslims kingdoms of Murcia and Lorca apart from becoming a Christian stronghold of extraordinary importance to the kingdom of Granada in 1243. Visit the castle and the Sanctuary.
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More Information |
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Office of Tourism Cartagena:
Puertas de San José-Pz.Basterreche, s/n 30203
Cartagena, Murcia
Email: cpdatos@ayto-cartagena.es
Phone 011 34 968506483
Fax: 011 34 968526912
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