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Cartagena Convention Center
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Landmark
The Cartagena de Indias Convention Center, officially named after Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala, is one of the most important congress venues in Latin America. It was opened in 1982 and was designed by the renowned Colombian architect Rogelio Salmona. The building is located in the Getsemaní neighborhood, right on the waterfront, and integrates harmoniously with the colonial surroundings of the walled city. The center is home to modern infrastructure used for international summits, economic conferences, and cultural events. It has hosted major events such as the Summit of the Americas and the signing of peace agreements. The architecture is characterized by the use of bricks and exposed concrete, typical of Salmona's style. With its versatile halls and views of Cartagena Bay, it serves as an economic engine for the region.
- Location: Colombia
- Top sights: Sloths in the trees · Galeria Arte Getsemaní · castillo san Felipe viewpoint
- Nearby: Isla Barú (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 3 | 10 | 60 | 178 | 135 | 160 | 160 | 182 | 242 | 181 | 56 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cartagena Convention Center is located on Las Ánimas Bay and is open to visitors when no private events are held. Enjoy the modern architecture and harbor views.
Typical hours
Hours depend on the event calendar; on days without conferences access is often limited to the morning. Check the official website before visiting.
Photography
Photography is allowed in public foyers and terraces with bay views. During events, photography may be restricted depending on the agreement.
Time needed
A visit lasts about 30-45 minutes to see the lobby and outdoor area. If attending a public exhibition or event, allow more time.
Combine with
Combine the visit with Cartagena's Old Town (Casco Antiguo) or Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. Both are a short taxi ride away.
Getting there
The convention center is in the El Laguito neighborhood, a 10-minute taxi ride from the historic center. Paid parking is available.
Insider tip
Visit early morning when no events are on to admire the architecture peacefully. The adjacent shopping mall has cafés with sea views.
Geography
Facts
- The convention center was inaugurated on October 25, 1982.
- The building covers a total area of more than 20,000 square meters.
- The main 'Getsemaní' hall has a capacity for up to 2,000 people.
- It was constructed on the site of Cartagena's former central market.
- In 2012, it hosted the VI Summit of the Americas with 33 heads of state present.
- The investment cost for the construction was around 1.5 billion pesos at the time.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Cartagena Convention Center (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the convention center accessible to tourists?
Usually only during events or concerts.
Where exactly in Cartagena is it located?
In the Getsemaní neighborhood, right on the waterfront opposite the old city.
Is there parking available?
Yes, it has its own parking garage for event visitors.
What kind of events take place there?
International conferences, fairs, concerts, and cultural festivals.
Does the center provide Wi-Fi for visitors?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available during most events.
Cartagena Convention Center: where is it located?
Cartagena Convention Center is located in Colombia.
Cartagena Convention Center: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sloths in the trees, Galeria Arte Getsemaní, castillo san Felipe viewpoint.
Cartagena Convention Center: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Cartagena Convention Center: why is it worth visiting?
The Cartagena de Indias Convention Center, officially named after Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala, is one of the most important congress venues in Latin America.
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History & landmarks
Clock Tower of Cartagena
The Torre del Reloj is the striking main gate into the walled old city of Cartagena.
San Pedro Claver Church
The Iglesia de San Pedro Claver is a historic church in Cartagena, named after the Spanish Jesuit who dedicated his life to caring for en…
Old Shoes Monument
The Old Shoes Monument is a giant bronze sculpture in Cartagena depicting a pair of worn-out boots.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is a massive Spanish military fortress in Cartagena, built to defend against pirates and enemy fleets.
More places
Palace of the Inquisition
A colonial building in Cartagena that once housed the Spanish Inquisition.
Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver
A church and convent in Cartagena holding the remains of Saint Peter Claver, who ministered to enslaved people.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A monumental Spanish fortress in Cartagena, built in the 16th century to defend against pirates.
Convento de la Popa
A colonial convent on the highest point in Cartagena, featuring a historical church and panoramic views.
Port of Cartagena
One of the most important ports in the Caribbean, central to container freight and the export of industrial and petroleum products.
Cartagena Refinery (Reficar)
One of the most modern oil refineries in Latin America, playing a key role in Colombia's energy supply.
Mamonal Industrial Complex
A massive industrial area near Cartagena, grouping petrochemicals, plastics manufacturing, and energy-intensive industries.
Fort of San Fernando de Bocachica
An 18th-century fortress on Tierra Bomba Island that guarded the main entrance to Cartagena Bay.