Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
The largest fortress the Spanish built in the Americas, perched on San Lázaro Hill. Its labyrinthine tunnels helped repel the massive British siege of 1741.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas stands on San Lázaro Hill, about 1 kilometer east of the old town. Construction of a simple fort began in 1536. It was expanded in 1657 and named after Spanish King Philip IV. Over the following century, it was continuously reinforced until it covered the entire hill, becoming the largest defensive fortification the Spanish built in the Americas. The design allowed any point to be covered by fire from other gun positions. Inside are long, labyrinthine tunnels used to carry sounds, store supplies, and place explosives. In 1741, British Admiral Vernon led around 180 ships and over 20,000 men in a siege of Cartagena. The Spanish commander Blas de Lezo, who was one-eyed, one-armed, and one-legged, a 'half man,' held the castle against overwhelming odds. This battle is considered one of Britain's most disastrous defeats in the Americas, and a bronze statue of Lezo stands in front of the castle. Visiting: climb the ramps and stairs to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the old town, the high-rises of Bocagrande, and the harbor. It's a great spot for city panoramas. Be sure to crawl into the low, damp tunnels, some of which require stooping, and bring a flashlight. Admission for foreign visitors is about 30,000 to 40,000 Colombian pesos. You can rent an audio guide or hire a guide, which is strongly recommended to understand the story of the siege. Open 08:00 to 18:00. Getting there: it's about a 20-minute walk from the Clock Tower, or a 5-minute taxi ride. It can be combined with the Monastery of La Popa for a half-day trip. Bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen.
Opening hours
08:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Monument to the Old Shoes
- Monument to India Catalina
- Getsemaní
- Casa Museo Rafael Núñez
- San Diego
- Walled City & Clock Tower
- Las Bóvedas
- Museum of Modern Art of Cartagena