Take a leisurely stroll around the city of Cartagena in south-eastern Spain and you can feel the history seeping from every wall. Cartagena was founded in ancient times (around 223BC) by the Carthaginians led by Hasdrubel and named Quart Hadas ("new city"). Hasdrubel died in 221BC and was succeeded by the famous Hannibal who used the city of Cartagena as his Iberian capital, attracted by its natural harbour surrounded by huge, rocky promontories. In 209BC the city was conquered by the Romans and given the name Carthago Nova ("new carthage"). It was re-conquered in later years by the Byzantines and by the Arabs who all left their mark on the city.
Amongst the places to visit from these ancient times are the Roman theatre from the 1st century BC, the Punic ramparts, the Litema (the ancient lighthouse) from the Arab presence and the Augusteum one of the best archaeological sites in the city, again Roman and from the 1st century BC - thought to have been the meeting place for the priesthood of the cult of Emperor Augustus.
Due to its location and its deepwater port Cartagena has for centuries been a major commercial centre and was recognised as being one of the wealthiest cities of the ancient world. It still remains as Spain's major commercial port and naval base and is famous as the birthplace of the first submarine (1884) - which is still proudly displayed on the quayside. Cartagena has also been a major mining area, the surrounding mountains being rich in metallic ores.
A popular way to view this city is from the top deck of an open topped bus. The half-hour trip will take you to some of the popular attractions, complete with an audio guide in several languages. However the best way to get around the city is by foot and as well as the ancient remains and historical buildings there is a busy and modern shopping centre boasting large department stores such as El Corte Ingles which is well worth a visit.
For holidaymakers staying in the popular resorts along the Costa Blanca and the Costa Calida it is a "must visit" location. Situated very handily on the N332 and at the end of the AP-7 motorway from Alicante, it is just a short drive for many visitors to the area. A very cheap way to travel is to take the regular bus which runs along the N332 from Alicante, picking up at major towns such as Santa Pola, Guardamar, and Torrevieja.
Also very popular along the surrounding coast is scuba diving - the crystal clear waters are ideal for this modern pursuit and a huge variety of fish can be seen including morays, stonefish and octopus. If you are lucky you may find the remnants of old wooden galleons, many of which foundered off the coast during centuries of wars and conflict.
Modern day Cartagena is undergoing major changes with a huge restoration program and the city is looking forward to renewed wealth and success.
So this is the ancient city of Cartagena on the Costa Calida, Spain, easing itself into the 21st century.
Spanish attractions
Summer is already knocking on our doors, so we have to prepare for the much deserved holidays. These days when all you want to do is to forget about the agitation of the city are days when you want to enjoy the warm sun, the crystal clear waters, perhaps a delicate beach, a fine restaurant and the traditions and customs of a place you have never visited before. Millions of tourists choose Spain because they find the country a very diverse one; well, they are not mistaken! Spain is the type of country where you find a lot of interesting history, a rich cultural and artistic heritage, breathtaking landscapes, lots of clubs, bars and pubs that offer good mood and a lot of fun and last but not the least, a lot of relaxation. You have to choose it! You will not regret your choice!
Visiting Cartagena
Cartagena patiently waits for its visitors in the south-eastern part of the country. What most attracts tourists to Cartagena is its impressive history. When you visit Cartagena, you feel the history coming out from every street, every monument, every old house and every wall. You will love it, especially if you are one of those who adore finding out interesting details related to the past of a place. What is wonderful about Cartagena is that the city was founded in 223 BC in ancient times. The Carthaginians were the ones who founded it but they lost the city in favor of the Romans. The Arabs also showed interest in Cartagena as in many other Spanish cities and villages. All these civilizations left their mark in Cartagena and all these marks are visible today and much appreciated by tourists. For example, you are not allowed to miss the Punic ramparts or the ancient lighthouse that dates back from the time of the Moors.
Enjoying Cartagena
Cartagena has always been a commercial centre and like all commercial centers, it always flourished, regardless of the historical and economical period. The city is absolutely beautiful and if you want to visit it and feel its atmosphere at the same time, do not hesitate to choose a tour from the top of an open bus. If you want to visit it by foot, make sure you do not miss the ancient remains of the old city or the historical buildings. Enjoy Cartagena!
