Manga
Manga is a residential neighborhood in Cartagena that was an island until the early 20th century. It's south of Getsemaní, across the Román bridge, and faces the inner bay.
- Hours
- Open neighborhood; the promenade is a public space.
- Price
- Free to walk around.
- Price
- Free
- Duration
- 0 to 2 hours
- Address
- Manga neighborhood, Cartagena
Manga was an almost empty island until 1904, when Dionisio Jiménez bought it and laid it out as a neighborhood. Wealthy families of the early 20th century built their villas there, and many Republican-era houses still stand among newer buildings.
The best thing to do is walk the waterfront promenade (malecón) along the bay, with sailboats at anchor and Bocagrande across the water. On the point facing Getsemaní is the Fuerte de San Sebastián del Pastelillo, home to the Club de Pesca restaurant.
There's also the Cementerio de Santa Cruz de Manga, from 1823, the city's first. It's a neighborhood for a second visit or for anyone staying several days: it doesn't have the buzz of the old town, but it's calm and has good views.
What to see
- Republican-era houses from the early 20th century.
- Waterfront promenade on the bay.
- Fuerte del Pastelillo and Club de Pesca.
- Cementerio de Santa Cruz de Manga.
Getting there
- On foot from Getsemaní, crossing the Román bridge; it's about 10 minutes to the Pastelillo.
- Taxi from the old town; the cruise ship pier is also in Manga.
Tips
- Walk the promenade late in the afternoon, when the sun goes down.
- At night, don't walk back to the old town; take a taxi.
- Away from the bridges, get around by taxi.
FAQ
Where is Manga?
South of Getsemaní, across the Román bridge, facing the inner bay.
What is there to do in Manga?
Walk the promenade, see the Republican-era houses, eat at the Fuerte del Pastelillo and visit the 1823 cemetery.
Is it a good area to stay?
It works for long stays or a second visit; for everything else you need to take taxis.
On the map
Photos: Nickeyra, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Martinus Discipulus Sapientiae, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nickeyra, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
