CARTAGENA
BY CHRIS NEDAHL
6 | MAY 2017
WRITERS ABROAD MAGAZINE : THE THIRD SPACE
The ancient city of Cartagena in the province of Murcia , south-east Spain , is a gem not to be missed . If you are cruising , taking a bus trip , or driving , seize the moment and devour this beautiful , old city , once known as Carthago Nova . Founded by Hasdrubal , a Carthaginian leader , and inhabited since 227 BC , its history and culture offer the sightseer a kaleidoscope of places to visit . An important naval port since the 16 th century , it continues to evolve and retain a position of importance today .
Take coffee at the stylish bars on the quayside or cross the road to the Calle Mayor , strewn with cafe-bars . Here you will find eating places to suit every taste from menu of the day and a la carte to speciality bistros and yogurterias . Browse boutiques and stores at your leisure . Clothing , shoes , jewellery , all are available in bright and friendly shops . If you want a memento of your visit , colourful side streets beckon . Heed the call — you will not be disappointed .
Are you an engineer , war buff , or maritime enthusiast ? Then look no further than the Naval Museum . Housed at the harbour , in a lovely old building , artefacts portray over 150 years of seafaring . Models of ships and diving equipment rub shoulders with treasure found in the wrecks of Spanish galleons . The exhibits are well laid out and clearly relate nautical history . Portraits of all the Admirals look down as visitors take a trip into their past .
In a separate building , and not to be forgotten , is the first ever submarine , designed and built in Spain . Isaac Peral envisaged such a vessel in 1884 . The Peral submarine was launched four years later in 1888 .
Whilst at the port why not take the tourist boat to Fort Christmas ? En route , the lively commentary explains how the Carthaginian people protected their seaport and city during the 1850s . The bastions in the rock face are clearly visible . The fort has been restored and turned into a museum . It is well worth a visit and the views from the boat are amazing . Budding photographers will be in their element .
Cartagena is home to numerous Roman ruins , dating from a time when the city boomed under their rule . In 1988 the remnants of a 1 st century amphitheatre