Cerro de la Popa

Cerro de la Popa Review

For spectacular views of Cartagena, ascend this hill around sunset. Because of its strategic location, the 17th-century monastery here intermittently served as a fortress during the colonial era. It now houses a museum and a chapel dedicated to the Virgen de la Candelaria, Cartagena's patron saint. Taxis charge around 8,000 pesos one way to bring you here—have them wait—and the sight can be included on one of Cartagena's popular chiva (horsedrawn carriage) tours. Under no circumstances should you walk between the city center and the hill; occasional muggings of tourists have been reported along the route.