Cartagena is a Caribbean jewel situated on Colombia’s northern coast. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cartagena is an ancient metropolis surrounded by waterways and bursting with culture. Colonial buildings stand alongside antique houses, while disco bars and modern resorts line the coast, reminding visitors of the city’s modern appeal. The warm, tropical climate is ideal for exploring the city’s amazing mud volcanoes, tranquil beaches, and colorful coral reefs.

The port city was founded in the 1530s by Spanish conquerors who shipped silver and gold back to their homeland. This trade lured pirates, so the locals built walls, forts, and castles around the city to protect it from looting. Today, these treasures and relics remain intact and stand as a picturesque reminder of the city’s unique heritage. The welcoming locals are full of charm and eager to show their world-class leather goods and pre-Colombian art—or just to share a pirate tale or two.

Three Good Reasons to Study Spanish in Cartagena Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous for its colonial charm, picturesque landscapes, and warm, tropical waters. The school is located in the heart of a historic neighborhood, within walking distance to the city’s forts and museums. All classes include five hours of cultural activities each week, from touring ancient castles to taking “mud baths” at a mud volcano.