Palace of Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisicion)
The Basics
Explore the museum on a self-guided tour, which are made possible by signage in both Spanish and English. Highlights of the museum include a floor dedicated to Cartagena’s independence from Spanish colonial rule; detailed dioramas that feature cutaways showing the city’s finest buildings; and maps and canons that date back to the Independence era. To learn more about Cartagena’s rich history, opt for a walking tour that covers the Palace of Inquisition among other notable landmarks such as the Gold Museum and Casa Museo Rafeal Nunez.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palace of Inquisition (Museo Histórico de Cartagena de Indias) is a must-visit attraction for history buffs.
- There’s a small admission fee to enter the museum, which is reduced for children and seniors.
- Only the first floor of the museum is accessible to visitors with strollers and wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Palace of Inquisition (Museo Histórico de Cartagena de Indias) is located at number 46 Plaza Bolivar, in the heart of Cartagena’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. The majority of Cartagena Old Town attractions, including the Clock Tower and Plaza Santo Domingo, are within 10 minutes’ walk of the museum.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The museum is open from morning until early evening Monday-Saturday, but operates with reduced opening hours on Sundays. Try to arrive first thing to beat the crowds.
Wildcard
Bolivar Square (Plaza Bolivar) As well as hosting the Palace of Inquisition (Museo Histórico de Cartagena de Indias), the leafy Bolivar Square—formerly Plaza de Inquisición—offers a more authentic alternative to Plaza de Santo Domingo. As well as harboring a grand statue of its eponymous hero and the Gold Museum, the square is a magnet for street performers and street food vendors after sunset, when the area is at its most atmospheric.
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- Gold Museum (Museo de Oro Zenu)
- Cartagena Cruise Port
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- Naval Museum of the Caribbean
- Cathedral of San Pedro Claver (Iglesia de San Pedro Claver)
- Cartagena Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena)
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- Plaza de San Diego
- La India Catalina Monument
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- Las Bovedas
- Rafael Nuñez House Museum
- San Felipe de Barajas Castle (Castillo San Felipe de Barajas)
- Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos)