Tucked inside Cartagena’s Walled City, Casa Carolina quietly opened its doors in February, offering a new kind of luxury in one of Latin America’s most storied destinations.
Housed in a meticulously restored 16th-century colonial mansion, the 15-room boutique hotel invites guests to slow down and reconnect through mindful wellness, modern design, and a deep sense of place. During its restoration, original frescos and murals were uncovered—some dating back over 400 years—adding rare artistic and historical depth to the experience.
What sets Casa Carolina apart isn’t just its architecture, but its soul:
- A purposeful ethos rooted in local sourcing, community partnerships, and Colombian artisanship
- A small but powerful Ayurvedic and ancestral spa program
- Two serene pools, a rooftop with Cathedral views, and a peaceful Yoga Shala
- Just B Wellness Café, serving vibrant dishes and organic drinks by chef Andrés Fernández León
It’s a new addition to Cartagena’s hospitality scene, but one with an old soul and a distinct point of view.
Cartagena, Spain: A Coastal Gem of History, Culture, and Charm
Cartagena, a city nestled along the southeast Mediterranean coast of Spain, is a blend of ancient history and contemporary energy. This port city in the Murcia region has been an important maritime hub for more than 2,000 years. Cartagena provides a surprising and unforgettable authentic Spanish experience, ranging from Roman ruins and military fortresses to modern museums and bustling plazas.
The city’s rich Roman heritage is among its most alluring aspects. The Roman Theatre, which was only found beneath the old town in 1988, is the jewel in the crown of Cartagena’s archaeological wonders. It was built in the 1st century BC, the theatre once held up to 7,000 spectators and today stands as one of Spain’s most remarkable Roman sites. Nearby, the Roman Forum District and the Casa de la Fortuna offer additional glimpses into daily life during the Roman Empire, with mosaics, columns, and preserved ruins that bring the past to life.
In addition to its historical landmarks, Cartagena charms with its elegant Modernist architecture, which blossomed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during an economic boom. Buildings like the Casa Aguirre and the Grand Hotel reflect the influence of Catalan Modernism, adding a distinct artistic flair to the cityscape. Walking through Cartagena’s streets, particularly along the pedestrianized Calle Mayor, feels like stepping into a living museum where every corner tells a story.
Of course, no visit to Cartagena would be complete without enjoying its scenic harbor and coastal beauty. The city’s waterfront is perfect for relaxing, enjoying fresh seafood, and taking in the Mediterranean breeze.
