Once the most important seat of Spanish power in the Americas, Cartagena, known then as Cartagena de Indias or Cartagena de Poniente (“of the West”), is one of Colombia’s most populous and visited cities. A stunning mix of natural wonder, intriguing antique architecture, and contemporary flavor, it’s a place where the cannons of centuries-old fortresses still overlook the water, and symbols of imperial power line streets walked by the descendants of conquistadors, slaves, and indigenous people alike.