Museums of Cartagena: A Complete Guide
Explore Cartagena’s top museums with our comprehensive guide. Discover historical treasures, cultural exhibits, entry fees, and visiting hours.
Cartagena, one of the most iconic cities in Colombia, is not only known for its beaches and vibrant nightlife but also for its rich cultural and historical offerings. The museums of Cartagena provide a window into the colonial past, military history, and cultural heritage of the region. Below is a detailed guide to the must-visit museums, including what to find in each, their prices, and hours of operation.
1. Museo del Oro Zenú
Overview: The Museo del Oro Zenú is a branch of the famous Gold Museum in Bogotá. It focuses on the Zenú culture, one of the most significant indigenous civilizations in the region.
What to Find:
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- Gold Artifacts: Exhibits of impressive gold pieces crafted by the Zenú, showcasing their metallurgy skills.
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- Ceramics and Textiles: Displays of ceramics and textiles produced by this civilization, highlighting their uses and symbolism.
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- Cultural Information: Informative panels about the history, social organization, and religious practices of the Zenú, providing deep historical and cultural context.
Prices and Hours:
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- Entry: Free.
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- Hours:
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- Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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- Sunday and holidays: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
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- Closed on Mondays.
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- Hours:
2. Museo Histórico de Cartagena (Palace of the Inquisition)
Overview: Located in the Palace of the Inquisition, this museum offers a fascinating look into the colonial era and the Inquisition in Cartagena.
What to Find:
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- Instruments of Torture: Exhibits of the devices used during the Inquisition, offering a perspective on this dark period of history.
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- Colonial History: Artifacts and documents that tell the colonial history of Cartagena, including daily life and the city’s evolution.
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- Religious Art: Collections of sacred art and religious objects, showcasing the church’s influence in the region.
Prices and Hours:
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- Entry:
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- Adults: COP 20,000
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- Students and children: COP 10,000
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- Entry:
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- Hours:
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- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
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- Sunday and holidays: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
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- Hours:
3. Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena
Overview: This museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring both Colombian and international artists.
What to Find:
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- Paintings and Sculptures: Works by modern and contemporary artists showing the evolution of art in Colombia and the world.
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- Temporary Exhibitions: Rotating exhibitions showcasing the best of modern art, always offering something new and exciting for visitors.
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- Workshops and Events: Educational programs and workshops for all ages, fostering art appreciation and creation.
Prices and Hours:
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- Entry:
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- Adults: COP 10,000
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- Students and children: COP 5,000
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- Entry:
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- Hours:
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- Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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- Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
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- Closed on Mondays.
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- Hours:
4. Casa Museo Rafael Núñez
Overview: The Casa Museo Rafael Núñez is the former residence of the Colombian ex-president Rafael Núñez, a key figure in Colombia’s history.
What to Find:
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- Historical Exhibits: Personal items and documents that belonged to Rafael Núñez, providing an intimate look into his life and legacy.
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- Period Furniture: Furniture and decorations from the time Núñez lived, recreating the period’s ambiance.
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- Historic Gardens: Beautiful gardens surrounding the house, perfect for a peaceful stroll and a connection with nature.
Prices and Hours:
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- Entry: Free.
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- Hours:
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- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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- Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
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- Closed on Mondays.
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- Hours:
5. Museo Naval del Caribe
Overview: This museum offers a comprehensive view of the naval and military history of the Colombian Caribbean.
What to Find:
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- Ship Models: Replicas and models of historical ships illustrating the evolution of navigation in the Caribbean.
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- Military History: Exhibits on naval battles and the defense of Cartagena, including the city’s fortifications.
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- Interactive Exhibits: Simulators and interactive activities for all ages, making history accessible and exciting for younger visitors.
Prices and Hours:
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- Entry:
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- Adults: COP 14,000
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- Children: COP 10,000
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- Entry:
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- Hours:
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- Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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- Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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- Hours:
6. Museo de la Esmeralda
Overview: This museum is dedicated to one of Colombia’s most iconic gemstones: the emerald.
What to Find:
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- Emerald Exhibits: Displays of emeralds in their natural and polished states.
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- Mining History: Information on the history and techniques of emerald mining in Colombia.
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- Jewelry Workshops: Exhibitions of emerald jewelry and workshops on how these precious stones are crafted.
Prices and Hours:
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- Entry: Free.
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- Hours:
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- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
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- Closed on Sundays.
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- Hours:
Conclusion
The museums of Cartagena offer a rich and varied cultural experience that allows visitors to explore the region’s history and art. From the fascinating history of the Inquisition at the Historical Museum to the stunning modern art at the Museum of Modern Art, each museum has something unique to offer. Be sure to plan your visit and enjoy everything these incredible places have to offer.
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