Mediterranean

Cartagena, Spain

In the natural harbour of Cartagena, delve into the legacy of various residents - including Phoenicians, Romans and Moors. With fascinating history dating back 3,000 years, Cartagena is a major naval port due to its unique position on the Mediterranean coast. Throughout most of its history Cartagena was a fortified city. Walls can be seen at the harbour front and several forts and castles can be seen upon the hilltops.

Highlights

MAR MENOR
Separated from the Mediterranean sea by a sand bar, this salty lagoon of warm, clear water does not exceed 7m in depth.

ROMAN THEATRE
See the remains of the Roman Theatre that was 'lost' for 6,000 years, the most distinctive of all monuments in Cartagena. The theatre was not discovered until 1987 and many of the finds are in the newly opened Roman Theatre Museum.

MUSEO NACIONAL DE ARQUEOLOGIA MARITIMA
Encounter scores of astonishing artefacts recovered from ruined ships at the bottom of the harbour at the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Items from the Roman and Punic era are exhibited, as well as ancient ships’ models.

LITTLE LANES
In the 18th century many people wanted to live inside the city walls. Affluent families displayed their wealth in the facades of their houses and alleyways were developed to accommodate the poorer people of the city. Explore these lanes, where you will find cafés and specialist shops.