Cartagena celebrates 492 years since its founding. June 1, 1533, marked a turning point in the history of the Colombian Caribbean. On that day, the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia founded the city of Cartagena de Indias—a colonial gem that would later become one of the most important ports in the Americas, a hub of commerce, military defense, and cultural resistance. Today, 492 years later, Cartagena continues to shine as one of the most iconic destinations in Colombia, and its anniversary is celebrated with a vibrant cultural program that highlights its history, art, and the spirit of its people.
Cartagena de Indias celebrates its 492nd anniversary
Cartagena was named after the Spanish city of Cartagena in Murcia, but it quickly forged its own identity. During the colonial period, it played a central role in the trade of African slaves and goods between Europe and the Americas. Its strategic location on the Caribbean coast made it a target for pirates and rival powers, which led to the construction of an impressive system of walls, bastions, and forts, such as the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. These fortifications are now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation granted in 1984.
Beyond its architectural richness, Cartagena holds deep symbolic value for Colombia, as it was one of the first cities in the country to declare independence from Spanish rule on November 11, 1811 a bold move that underscores its fighting spirit.
What does Cartagena’s birthday represent?
More than just a commemorative date, Cartagena’s birthday is a chance to reflect on and celebrate the resilient and diverse character of its people. It represents the pride of a city that, despite social challenges, has remained a cultural and touristic beacon of Colombia. It is also a moment to honor the city’s unique identity, shaped by a powerful mix of African, Indigenous, and European roots that influence its music, food, language, and traditions.
In the words of Mayor Dumek Turbay Paz, “Cartageneidad is our essence; it is what defines us as citizens of a unique city in the world. This 492nd birthday is an opportunity to reconnect with our history, our roots, and our greatest cultural references.”
Celebrations honoring Cartagena
Under the motto “492 artists celebrate the 492 years of Cartagena,” the Mayor’s Office has launched a diverse lineup of events that began in May and will continue throughout June. In collaboration with institutions such as the Institute of Heritage and Culture of Cartagena (IPCC), Corpoturismo, the School of Government, the Department of Education, the Department of Tourism, IDER, the Escuela Taller, and the Public Space Department, a coordinated effort is underway to bring the festivities to every corner of the district.
This grand cultural celebration includes concerts, art exhibitions, workshops, academic sessions, recreational activities, and folkloric performances. Neighborhoods and rural areas transform into living stages where local artists can showcase their talent and foster a strong sense of belonging among Cartageneros.
Raising the cuadrilonga flag Cartagena’s official symbol has also become a gesture of unity and civic pride. This flag, with its distinctive red background and white cross, waves from balconies and public squares as a reminder that the city’s history lives on and that love for Cartagena is a collective force passed down through generations.
In each of these celebrations, Cartagena reaffirms its role as an ambassador of Colombian culture to the world. Its 492nd birthday is not only a source of local pride but also a reminder of the power of art, history, and identity to build community and inspire hope. From the centuries-old walls that protect its past to the new generations dreaming of its future, Cartagena remains a shining symbol of the Caribbean soul of Colombia.