| For travelers who like a bit of culture on vacation, a | | | | History buffs will also enjoy the National Museum of |
| Spanish holiday in Cartagena is worth considering. This | | | | Underwater Archaeology. Here, visitors will see |
| port city in the province of Murcia is an eclectic mix of | | | | artifacts recovered from under the sea around Murcia. |
| old and new. Evidence of its Carthaginian roots can be | | | | It boasts the world's only collection of elephant tusks |
| seen in some of its architecture, though its rule has | | | | bearing Phoenician inscriptions. In addition to recovered |
| long since passed. | | | | artifacts, the museum holds models of ancient ships. |
| In fact, the city has changed hands several times over | | | | The details of these antiques tell a story all their own |
| the last few millenniums. As its name implies, it was | | | | and complement the history of Cartagena's seafaring |
| founded by the Carthaginians. Specifically, it was | | | | past. |
| General Hasdrubal the Fair who named the port "Qart | | | | Visitors to the Municipal Archaeology Museum of |
| Hadast," or "New City." He was lauded for his skill in | | | | Cartagena will find a detailed, chronological history of |
| obtaining the port in 230 B.C. However, Hasdrubal and | | | | the city. It traces the city's roots from the Bronze Age |
| the Carthaginians didn't hold it for long. By 209 B.C. it | | | | right to the 19th century. The museum itself is a point |
| had fallen into Roman control. Since then, it has been | | | | of historical interest. It is located on the ancient Roman |
| influenced by other cultures. Today Cartagena's mix of | | | | necropolis of San Anton. |
| cultural heritage makes it an attractive place for a | | | | Museums aside, visitors could spend days simply |
| Spanish holiday. | | | | viewing ancient structures. The excavated Augusteum |
| One noteworthy fact that visitors will not be able to | | | | dates back to the first century A.D. It was used by the |
| miss: Cartagena is still surrounded by walls. It is a | | | | Romans for religious gatherings. Much mystery and |
| telltale sign that Cartagena was an important city. It is | | | | lore surrounds the Augusteum, as well as speculation |
| still home to a large naval station today. Forts stand | | | | about more insidious uses. Tourists can also view |
| throughout the city as a testimony to its place in | | | | artifacts like pottery, coins and building materials |
| Spanish history. Visitors who want to learn more about | | | | uncovered during the excavation process. The Roman |
| its naval heritage can visit the Museo Naval de | | | | Amphitheatre is a sight to behold. Once covered by a |
| Cartagena (Naval Museum). Though it's housed in a | | | | bull ring, the ancient structure has been unearthed and |
| modern building, its contents speak of eras past. | | | | bears witness to the control of Cartagena by the |
| Visitors will find a complete history of the navy's | | | | Romans. Cartagena is also home to numerous |
| activities in this port. Of special significance to locals is | | | | cathedrals, castles and forts. |
| the room devoted to the life and career of Cartagena | | | | When visitors are bleary-eyed from the sights, they |
| native Isaac Peral. A scientist and sailor, Peral invented | | | | can relax on one of the many beaches along the |
| the first submarine, which was launched in 1888. Peral's | | | | coast. Between the balmy weather, the outstanding |
| contributions to the history of the navy are noted even | | | | regional cuisine and the rich heritage of Cartagena, |
| outside the museum. A number of streets and other | | | | tourists can expect a well-rounded Spanish holiday. |
| sites were named after Peral. | | | | |