Your exploration of the magnificent city of Cartagena de Indias starts with a visit to La Popa Monastery, previously known as the 'stern of a galleon'. This ancient monastery located a top of a hill can be seen from any point in Cartagena and offers a privileged view of the city. Built at the beginning of the 17th century and still inhabited by monks, it was used several times as a fortress because of its strategic location. It houses a chapel dedicated to Virgen de la Candelaria, patron saint of Cartagena and a Colonial museum. Continue to San Felipe de Barajas situated outside the walled city, for a panoramic view of this monumental fort considered to be the most outstanding feat of Spanish military engineering in the New World. Its construction began in 1536 and lasted for 121 years. Your tour continues to the walled city, where construction took 194 years to be completed and which enabled Cartagena to defend itself from English attacks. The ramparts, the narrow streets, Colonial balconies and the main squares are marvelous tourist attractions today. A visit to San Pedro Claver cloister and monastery, built in homage to the protector of slaves, constitutes another point of interest within the walled city. Next, continue to Bocagrande, which in complete contrast with the old city is modern with high rise apartment complexes, hotels and restaurants. Here, you'll have the opportunity to shop at Pierino Gallo and las Bovedas. Note: Guests must walk approximately 5 blocks in the Colonial part of the city.