The structure features 47 arches, yet it is colloquially known as Las Bóvedas, or 'The Vaults'.
During the early 19th century, the vaults served as a notorious dungeon for political prisoners during the Spanish reconquest of Cartagena.
The mortar used in the construction included a mixture of lime and sand, sometimes reinforced with egg whites, a common colonial building technique.
The design was intended to serve a dual purpose: a military storage facility in the base and a defensive barracks on the elevated platform.
Despite their military function, the vaults were never used for their intended purpose as a massive arms depot due to the changing political climate in the late 18th century.
Las Bóvedas is a complex of 47 stone arches and 23 vaults integrated into the northern section of Cartagena's historic defensive walls. Constructed between 1792 and 1796, it represents the final major military project completed by the Spanish in the city. Designed by architect Antonio de Arévalo, the structure originally functioned as a military armory and prison during the colonial era and the subsequent Wars of Independence. Today, the repurposed cells house a series of artisan shops specializing in Colombian crafts, paintings, and traditional jewelry. The fortification is situated in the San Diego neighborhood, facing the Caribbean Sea. Its thick walls were designed to withstand heavy bombardment, contributing to Cartagena's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can walk along the upper ramparts for panoramic views of the city's coast and rooftops.
The upper walkway of the city wall, looking back toward the colonial skyline of the San Diego neighborhood.
Visit the upper level of the ramparts first to get your bearings of the San Diego district before descending into the shops.
Bring water as the stone structures retain heat, making the temperature inside the shops higher than the outdoor breeze.
Avoid purchasing high-value jewelry or 'pre-Columbian' artifacts from street vendors near the entrance, as authenticity is frequently misrepresented.
