The port city of Cartagena in Spain is a great destination for holidaymakers who want to learn more about the history of the country, as it’s full of ancient ruins and museums
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Spain, Murcia’s Cartagena is steeped in history as a port city, even snagging the title of “best Spanish seaside town for history” from a recent Which? Travel survey. For those enraptured by the tales of Spain’s past, Cartagena stands out as an ideal destination.
Which? Travel’s experts were effusive about its “five-star” attractions, resplendent with museums and ancient relics for tourists to relish. Delving into what makes the area so special, Which? experts said: “That’s thanks to sights such as the 1st-century Roman amphitheatre and contemporary bathhouse and arcade preserved as the Barrio del Foro Romano.”
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Despite its historical clout as a hotspot for Carthaginians and Romans, today Cartagena retains its naval significance with a bustling shipyard and status as a cruise ship haven that sees vessels docking every other week.
This does mean, however, that Cartagena can experience quite the hustle and bustle, meriting only two stars from Which? for tranquillity.
Notable cultural treasures include the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, Cartagena Roman Theatre Museum and Municipal Archaeology Museum.
Cartagena also boasts remarkable architectural vestiges of bygone civilisations, such as the enigmatic Torre Ciega. The monument is the sole remaining feature of the Roman necropolis that once stood along the route from Carthago Nova to Tarragona.
This port town also boasts the Roman Theatre of Cartagena, believed to have been constructed between 5 and 1 BCE. An ongoing restoration project has breathed new life into the theatre and provided the city with a fresh museum space for visitors to explore.
But it’s not just history that this coastal town is known for, , reports the Express. Cartagena also prides itself on its rich culinary scene, thanks to the diverse landscapes of the Region of Murcia.
In Cartagena, the standout dishes include brine-preserved products, fish, rice dishes and paellas. Another regional favourite is fig bread, and if you’re looking to drink like a local, Cartagena’s asiático is a must-try, made from condensed milk, cognac and cinnamon.