Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandria (Cartagena Cathedral), Cartagena

Standing on the corner of lively Bolivar Square is the magnificent Cartagena Cathedral, a striking Spanish Renaissance-style church painted lemon yellow with white trim. Its bell tower and dome rise prominently above the rooftops of the Old Town, making this architectural landmark difficult to miss.

The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Cartagena and is dedicated to the Christian martyr Saint Catherine of Alexandria. Cartagena’s episcopal see is one of the oldest in the Americas.

The cathedral was built between 1577 and 1612, replacing a modest church made of wood and reeds that previously occupied the site. In 1586, while still under construction, the building suffered severe damage when Cartagena came under attack by the English privateer Francis Drake. After capturing the city, Drake demanded a substantial ransom and threatened to destroy the cathedral.

A cannon shot fired at the building struck one of its columns, bringing down two others along with four arches and part of the roof. The inhabitants of Cartagena eventually agreed to pay a large ransom to prevent further destruction.

The cathedral’s original structure has survived largely unchanged. Designed by master builder Simon Gonzalez, it was modelled on basilicas in Andalusia, Spain, and the Canary Islands.

Inside, three naves are divided by elegant columned arches. Look for the impressive gilded high altar, decorated with small statues and elaborate golden details. Carved wooden reliefs depicting religious scenes adorn the upper side walls, while the marble floor features a chequered pattern of black and white tiles.

Outside, in Proclamation Square, look for the bronze statue of Pope John Paul II, commemorating his visit to Cartagena in 1986.