Calle de las Chancletas (Flip Flops Street), Cartagena

Stretching between Well Square at one end and the emblematic Las Tablitas Shop at the other is yet another colourful landmark of Getsemani: Flip Flops Street.

The origins of Las Tablitas Shop-a liquor store, mini-market, bar and even a casino, all rolled into one-remain something of a mystery. Much like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it seems almost miraculous that this iconic corner shop is still standing. More than a century old, it was built from timber originally used as maritime packing material and has become one of the area’s most distinctive landmarks.

According to local tradition, during colonial times, boatmen from Barú and Tierrabomba would come to the area to sell products such as cassava and corn near one of the local bridges. Their wives would accompany them and, with permission from local residents, prepare dinner-usually a traditional soup or stew-at a designated spot along this street. The men, having spent much of their time in the water, would leave their flip-flops drying in the sun on the pavement while they sat down to eat. According to the story, this is how the street acquired its unusual name.

While flip-flops may have given the street its name, today it is the roses, climbing plants and colonial architecture that make the greatest impression. In terms of natural charm, Flip Flops Street is second to none in Getsemani. Its lush vegetation and colourful façades create an inviting setting in which to slow down, admire the surroundings and, of course, snap a few photographs.