population: 1.005 million million

extension: 572 km² square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Cartagena, Colombia and want to visit museums, a must-visit place is the Palace of the Inquisition Museum. This museum features exhibits on the history of the Spanish Inquisition and its impact on colonial Cartagena.

Other museums in Cartagena that you might be interested in visiting include the Gold Museum, which showcases pre-Columbian gold artifacts, the Naval Museum of the Caribbean, which displays the maritime history of the region, and the Museum of Modern Art, which features contemporary artwork from Colombia and beyond.

If you're looking for similar types of museums nearby, you might consider traveling to Bogotá, Colombia, which has a rich cultural scene and numerous museums, including the famous Gold Museum, the National Museum of Colombia, and the Botero Museum, which houses the works of Colombian artist Fernando Botero.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Cartagena according to local people are:

1. Arroz con coco: This is a Caribbean-style rice dish cooked with coconut milk and often served with seafood or meat.

2. Arepas de huevo: These are deep-fried corn cakes filled with scrambled eggs and sometimes also meat or cheese.

3. Sancocho: This is a hearty soup made with plantains, yucca, potatoes, and various meats like chicken, beef, or fish.

4. Ceviche: This is a popular seafood dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and other seasonings.

5. Fried fish: Cartagena is known for its fresh fish, which is often fried and served with rice, salad, and plantains.

6. Empanadas: These are savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and typically fried until crispy.

7. Bollos de Mazorca: These are boiled cornmeal patties wrapped in corn husks and often served with cheese and/or aji (spicy sauce).

8. Posta Negra: This is a slow-cooked beef dish seasoned with garlic, cumin, and other spices and served with rice, plantains, and salad.

9. Chicharrón: This is crispy fried pork belly that is often served as a snack or appetizer.

10. Limonada de Coco: This is a refreshing drink made with coconut water, lime juice, and sugar, which is perfect for hot days in Cartagena.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that local people like to do in Cartagena, Colombia:

1. Enjoy the beaches: Cartagena is known for its beautiful beaches such as Playa Blanca and Bocagrande where locals love to spend their weekends soaking up the sun, swimming, and enjoying the sea breeze.

2. Explore the walled city: The historic district of Cartagena, also known as the walled city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich colonial history. Locals enjoy exploring its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and impressive architecture.

3. Eat street food: In Cartagena, you can find a variety of delicious street food such as arepas, empanadas, ceviche, and tropical fruits. Locals love to sample the different flavors and spices of food from street vendors.

4. Dance to local music: Salsa and reggaeton are popular genres of music in Cartagena, and locals love to dance to them in clubs or even on the streets during festivals or celebrations.

5. Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: This fortress was built by the Spanish in the 17th century to protect the city from invaders. It offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings, making it a great spot for taking photos and learning about Cartagena's history.