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Facts for Kids

Cartagena de Indias is a vibrant city in Colombia known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively culture by the Caribbean Sea.

Overview

Economy And Trade

Festivals And Events

Geography And Climate

Cuisine And Local Food

Tourism And Attractions

Education And Institutions

History Of Cartagena De Indias

Cultural Heritage And Landmarks

Important Figures From Cartagena

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Inside this Article

Gabriel García Márquez

World Heritage Site

Tropical Climate

Entertainment

Francis Drake

Cartagena

Addition

Memories

Did you know?

🇨🇴 Cartagena de Indias is a colorful city located in Colombia right by the Caribbean Sea.

🌊 It was founded in 1533 and is famous for its beautiful beaches and historic buildings.

🚢 Cartagena is one of Colombia's most important ports, making it a busy hub for trade.

🎉 The city is over 490 years old, as it was established by the Spanish in 1533.

⚔️ Pirates, including the famous Sir Francis Drake, tried to attack Cartagena for its treasure.

❤️ Strong walls and forts were built to protect the city from pirate attacks.

🌅 Cartagena enjoys a warm tropical climate with temperatures averaging around 82°F (28°C).

🏰 The Old Town of Cartagena has colorful buildings and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

🍽️ Delicious local foods include 'Arepas' and 'Ceviche' that you must try when visiting!

🎉 Cartagena hosts many fun festivals, like the Cartagena International Film Festival and the Festival of the Sea.

Introduction

Cartagena de Indias is a colorful city located in Colombia 🇨🇴, right by the Caribbean Sea 🌊. It was founded in 1533 and is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and lively culture. Cartagena is also one of Colombia's most important ports! 🚢

When you visit, you can enjoy sunny weather, friendly people, and delicious food. It has a vibrant mix of music, dance, and art 🎨. Cartagena is a city filled with stories and adventures waiting for you to discover! ✨

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Economy And Trade

Cartagena de Indias has a bustling economy! 💰

Being an important port city, it is a hub for trade, shipping goods across the Caribbean and beyond. Some important exports include oil, copper, and bananas 🍌. Tourism also plays a big role in the city's economy, attracting visitors to its beautiful sights and historical attractions. 🏖

️ Many people earn a living through trades like fishing, crafts, and hospitality. This rich mix of jobs helps the city thrive and provide livelihoods for its people!
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Festivals And Events

Cartagena hosts many exciting festivals throughout the year! 🎉

One famous event is the Cartagena International Film Festival, which showcases films from all around the world 📽️. Another fun celebration is the Festival of the Sea, which includes water sports, music, and delicious seafood! 🌊

In November, the city celebrates the Independence Parade, where people show their pride for Colombia with colorful costumes and dances. 💃

These festivals bring people together and create a joyful atmosphere full of excitement and entertainment!
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Geography And Climate

Cartagena is found on the northern coast of Colombia 😃, surrounded by the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea 🌅. The city has many beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing! ☀

️ It enjoys a tropical climate, meaning it’s warm and sunny almost all year long! The temperature usually stays around 82°F (28°C). Rain can happen, especially during the rainy season, which usually runs from May to November 🌧️. So, pack your sunscreen and enjoy the sunshine when you visit!
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Cuisine And Local Food

When in Cartagena, you must try its delicious food! 🍽

️ A popular dish is "Arepas," which are corn cakes filled with cheese or meat. Another tasty treat is "Ceviche," made from fresh fish marinated in lime juice and spices 🌶️. You can also find "Bandeja Paisa," a hearty plate filled with rice, beans, meat, and more! Street vendors sell yummy snacks like "Empanadas," which are fried pastries stuffed with chicken or beef. 🥟

Enjoying local food is one of the best ways to experience Cartagena's culture!
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Tourism And Attractions

Cartagena is a fantastic travel destination for families and adventurers! 🏖

️ Tourists love visiting the historic Old Town, where you can explore charming streets and colorful plazas. The Rosario Islands 🌴 are nearby and offer beautiful beaches for swimming and snorkeling! 🐠

You can also explore the impressive Castillo San Felipe fort, and take boat tours to see dolphins in the wild! 🐬

With so much to see and do, Cartagena is an amazing place for creating unforgettable memories!
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Education And Institutions

Cartagena has many schools and institutions for learning! 📚

The city is home to a mix of public and private schools, where children can gain an education in various subjects. Notable universities include the University of Cartagena and the Technological University of Bolivar, which offer higher education for young adults. 🎓

In addition, the city promotes cultural programs and workshops, helping children learn about art, music, and science. The goal is to give every child the opportunity to grow and succeed in their education! 🌟

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History Of Cartagena De Indias

Cartagena was established by the Spanish in 1533, making it over 490 years old! 🎉

The city helped protect Spanish treasure ships, which carried gold from South America to Spain. Because of this, pirates often tried to attack Cartagena! ⚔

️ One of the most famous pirates was Sir Francis Drake, who raided the city in 1586! To defend against attacks, the Spanish built strong walls and forts, some of which still stand today ❤️. Cartagena became a vital trade center, helping it grow and develop throughout the years.
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Cultural Heritage And Landmarks

Cartagena is rich in culture and home to many historic landmarks! 🏰

The Old Town, with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site! 🤩

One famous landmark is the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, which is a huge fort built to protect the city. There's also the clock tower, Torre del Reloj, at the entrance of the Old Town. 🎶

Cartagena has lively music and dance styles like Champeta and Vallenato, making it a fun place to learn about different cultures!
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Important Figures From Cartagena

Many influential people have connections to Cartagena! 🌟

One famous figure is Gabriel García Márquez, a Nobel Prize-winning author who wrote amazing books, including "One Hundred Years of Solitude" 📚. Another important person is the artist Alejandro Obregón, known for his stunning paintings that portray Colombian culture. You can't forget to mention historical leaders like Pedro de Heredia, the city's founder! These individuals have helped shape Cartagena's rich history and vibrant culture, leaving their mark on its story.
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