The park was historically known as the 'Plaza de los Mártires' due to its proximity to the site where Colombian independence heroes were executed.
The park serves as a sanctuary for sloths that live permanently in the canopy, making them easily observable from the walking paths.
It was inaugurated in 1911 to commemorate the first centennial of the independence of Cartagena.
The park contains a monument dedicated to the martyrs of the independence movement.
Centenario Park serves as the primary urban green lung separating the historic Walled City from the Getsemaní neighborhood. The park is characterized by its dense canopy of ancient banyan, mahogany, and palm trees providing significant shade. It serves as a natural habitat for free-roaming sloths, iguanas, and various tropical bird species often visible in the treetops. Stone pathways traverse the park, connecting the Convention Center area to the colonial fortifications. It functions as a central transit corridor for locals and a resting point for visitors exploring Cartagena's old town. The park is an open-air space maintained by the municipal government of Cartagena.
The stone benches under the large banyan trees looking upward toward the canopy.
Look up into the dense tree branches to spot sloths and iguanas, as they are often camouflaged.
Keep a safe distance from the wildlife and do not attempt to feed or touch the animals.
Visit during the daylight hours, as the park is a transit corridor rather than a late-night destination.
Do not trust individuals offering 'guided' wildlife tours within the park; the animals can be viewed independently without assistance.
