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Convento de la Popa

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Historical site
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Convento de la Popa (Colombia)

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The Convento de la Popa is a colonial-era monastery perched on the highest hill in Cartagena, standing about 150 meters above sea level. Established in 1607 by Augustinian friars following a vision by Father Alonso de la Cruz Paredes, the convent was dedicated to the Virgin of Candelaria, the city's patron saint. The hill's name, 'La Popa' (the stern), was given by early sailors who thought the hill’s profile resembled the back of a ship. The monastery is famous for its impressive internal cloister, featuring ornate arches and flower-filled gardens that showcase classic Spanish colonial architecture. Inside the chapel, visitors can admire a magnificent gold-leaf altar and the deeply venerated image of the Black Virgin. Throughout its history, the convent's strategic location led it to be used as a military outpost during pirate raids and the war for independence. Today, it remains an active religious site and a premier tourist destination, offering unrivaled 360-degree views of Cartagena’s historic center, the modern skyline, and the Caribbean Sea.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272828282829292928282828
Rain mm33106017813516016018224218156

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Convento de la Popa, on the highest point of Cartagena, is open to visitors. The church and monastery grounds can be visited for a fee, the viewpoint terrace is free.
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Typical hours
Convento is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a lunch break from 12:00 to 1:00 PM. Opening hours may vary on Sundays and public holidays.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds and in the church without flash. The panoramic views of Cartagena from the terrace are a must for photographers.
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Time needed
Visiting Convento de la Popa takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you want to thoroughly enjoy the view and take photos, you can plan up to 2 hours.
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Combine with
Convento is on the hill above Cartagena's old town. Combine the visit with a stroll through the winding streets of Getsemani and the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas.
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Getting there
The best way to reach Convento is by taxi or Uber from the center (about 10 minutes). Alternatively, you can walk the steep path from the harbor, which takes about 20 minutes.
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Insider tip
Visit Convento in the late afternoon to experience the sunset over Cartagena Bay. Bring a light jacket as the wind can be strong on the hill.

Geography

Coordinates
10.42190, -75.52520

Facts

  • The monastery was founded by Augustinian Recollects in 1607.
  • It sits at the summit of Cerro de la Popa, 150 meters above sea level.
  • The church houses the sacred image of the Virgin of Candelaria.
  • The hill was originally a place of worship for local indigenous groups.
  • The building features a beautifully preserved Spanish-style flower cloister.
  • It offers the most comprehensive panoramic view of Cartagena and the Caribbean.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

CartagenaCartagena<1 km · SWExplore →
Cartagena Convention CenterCartagena Convention Center2 km · SExplore →
Cartagena Refinery (Reficar)Cartagena Refinery (Reficar)3 km · NWExplore →
Fort of San Fernando de BocachicaFort of San Fernando de Bocachica7 km · SExplore →
National Aviary of ColombiaNational Aviary of Colombia10 km · SWExplore →
Isla BarúIsla Barú19 km · SWExplore →
TolúTolú26 km · WExplore →
Rosario Islands OceanariumRosario Islands Oceanarium27 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Convento de la Popa (13)

La Popa Viewpoint🌿 nature

Located at the 17th-century convent atop the city's highest hill, this spot has unparalleled panoramic views.

Observ. aves🌿 nature

This designated viewpoint is good for observing local bird species in their natural tropical habitat.

Casa de la Cultura🎭 culture

This community arts center hosts workshops and exhibitions that promote and preserve local Caribbean culture.

Punto avistamiento de aves🌿 nature

Located on the slopes of La Popa, this viewpoint is a strategic location for watching colorful tropical birds.

Tunel hacia Punta Icaco📍 landmark

This intriguing tunnel forms part of a historic or logistical passage leading towards the Punta Icaco area.

Tunel hacia Morro e'medio📍 landmark

This passage serves as a unique tunnel connection leading toward the coastal sector of Morro e'medio.

Playa Las Américas🎡 recreation

This sandy Caribbean beach has a relaxing escape with its warm waters on the city's northern coast.

Playas de Crespo🎡 recreation

This wide stretch of shoreline near the airport is a popular spot for sunset walks and sea breezes.

Playa de Oro🎡 recreation

A tropical sandy beach with golden shores along the Caribbean coastline.

Iglesia Hermanos en Cristo⛪ religious

A Christian church serving as a spiritual center for the community in the Popa district.

Iglesia Cristiana Arca de Jehova📍 landmark

A Christian sanctuary located in a residential area near the historic monastery.

tipicalfood⛪ religious

A small local prayer space for the Christian community in the La Popa neighborhood.

Muelle los arriberos⛪ religious

A waterfront chapel located near the traditional docks for river boats.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get to Convento de La Popa?
It is strongly recommended to take a taxi, as the walk is steep and can be unsafe in some areas.
How high is the monastery located?
It is situated on a 150-meter-high hill, the highest point in Cartagena.
What are the opening hours?
The monastery is open to visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
How much is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee for adults is approximately 13,000 COP.
Is there a good view from there?
Yes, it provides the best panoramic view of all Cartagena, the harbor, and the sea.
Convento de la Popa: where is it located?
Convento de la Popa is located in Colombia.
Convento de la Popa: what is there to see?
Highlights include La Popa Viewpoint, Observ. aves, Casa de la Cultura.
Convento de la Popa: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Convento de la Popa: why is it worth visiting?
The Convento de la Popa is a colonial-era monastery perched on the highest hill in Cartagena, standing about 150 meters above sea level.
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Nearby cities

Cartagena — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
Cartagena
Historic colonial city and tourist destination.
Magangué — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
Magangué
Second largest city in the Bolívar department on the Magdalena River.

History & landmarks

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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.
Old Shoes Monument — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
Old Shoes Monument
The Old Shoes Monument is a giant bronze sculpture in Cartagena depicting a pair of worn-out boots.
Cartagena Convention Center — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
Cartagena Convention Center
The modern Julio Cesar Turbay Ayala Convention Center is located on Las Ánimas Bay.
Clock Tower of Cartagena — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
Clock Tower of Cartagena
The Torre del Reloj is the striking main gate into the walled old city of Cartagena.
San Pedro Claver Church — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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…

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Port of Cartagena — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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Castillo San Felipe de Barajas — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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A monumental Spanish fortress in Cartagena, built in the 16th century to defend against pirates.
Palace of the Inquisition — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
Palace of the Inquisition
A colonial building in Cartagena that once housed the Spanish Inquisition.
Cartagena Refinery (Reficar) — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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A church and convent in Cartagena holding the remains of Saint Peter Claver, who ministered to enslaved people.
Mamonal Industrial Complex — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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Fort of San Fernando de Bocachica — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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An 18th-century fortress on Tierra Bomba Island that guarded the main entrance to Cartagena Bay.
National Aviary of Colombia — Convento de la Popa (Colombia)
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