Learn How to Pronounce Cartagena | YouPronounce.it
How to Pronounce Cartagena
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)
Meaning and Context
Cartagena, officially Cartagena de Indias, is a historic port city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia. Renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved colonial architecture, the city's crown jewel is the Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City), a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, featuring cobblestone streets, vibrant plazas, and iconic landmarks like the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress. This major tourist destination seamlessly blends its rich history as a key hub in the Spanish treasure fleet with a vibrant contemporary culture, offering visitors pristine Caribbean beaches, a dynamic gastronomic scene, and lively festivals. Its strategic location on the northern coast of South America has cemented its status as a crucial Colombian port city and a premier hub for Caribbean tourism, cruise ship arrivals, and cultural heritage travel.
Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings
The primary spelling is "Cartagena," which is standard in both English and Spanish. A common misspelling is "Cartegena," with an 'e' in the third syllable, or "Cartagina," substituting an 'i' for the 'e'. In formal or historical contexts, the full name "Cartagena de Indias" is used to distinguish it from its Spanish namesake, Cartagena in the Murcia region. Typographical errors often include "Cartagena" (missing the 'r') or "Cartagena" (transposing the 'g' and 'e'). When writing in Spanish, proper capitalization and inclusion of the accent mark in "Cartagena" are correct, though the accent is often omitted in informal English usage.
Example Sentences
No trip to Colombia is complete without exploring the colorful streets and formidable ramparts of Cartagena's historic center.
Many historians argue that the wealth flowing through the port of Cartagena during the colonial era was pivotal to the Spanish Empire's economy.
We spent the afternoon wandering through the Getsemaní neighborhood, just outside the old walls, admiring its stunning street art and bohemian vibe.
The Cartagena International Music Festival, held each January, transforms the city into a classical music hub attracting world-renowned orchestras.
To truly understand the city's strategic importance, a guided tour of the intricate tunnels within the Castillo de San Felipe is highly recommended.
Modern Cartagena is a fascinating blend where luxury high-rises in Bocagrande look out toward the same Caribbean waters that once bore galleons laden with gold.
Related Pronunciations
- How to pronounce Port au Prince
- How to pronounce Bonaire
- How to pronounce Sucre
- How to pronounce Santiago de Cali
- How to pronounce Concepción