Plaza de la Proclamación
A historic heart of Cartagena's Old Town, blending stunning architecture with vibrant local life and moments of unexpected connection.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Plaza de la Proclamación
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic heart of Cartagena's Old Town, blending stunning architecture with vibrant local life and moments of unexpected connection.
"Amazing history and vibe. Lots to see in a short walk. Great stores, vendors and restaurants."
☀️ Beat the Heat
No shade here! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Moment
Great spot for photos, especially the Pope statue and the pigeon interactions. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palacio de la Proclamación
Central Plaza
Stunningly restored historic building, now a vibrant cultural center. A must-see architectural marvel.

Pope John Paul II Statue
Plaza Entrance
A striking bronze statue offering a unique photo opportunity and a symbol of faith in the heart of the old town.
The Pigeon Whisperer
Throughout the Plaza
Witness a heartwarming scene of a local feeding pigeons, a testament to gentle connection and trust.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun and History
A Hub of Culture and Connection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best time for pics of old town
☀️ Beat the Heat
No shade here! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Moment
Great spot for photos, especially the Pope statue and the pigeon interactions. :camerawithflash:
Visiting soon - Recommendations and Tips please! 🙏🏾
Just back from Cartagena. Here’s my 2 cents…
🤝 Connect with Locals
Be open to interactions; you might witness beautiful moments like the pigeon feeding. :heart:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
It's right by Bolívar Park and the Cathedral, so combine your visit. :world_map:
About to visit Cartagena for the first time. Dos and Donts.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Heat
No shade here! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Moment
Great spot for photos, especially the Pope statue and the pigeon interactions. :camerawithflash:
🤝 Connect with Locals
Be open to interactions; you might witness beautiful moments like the pigeon feeding. :heart:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
It's right by Bolívar Park and the Cathedral, so combine your visit. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Plaza de la Proclamación to be a beautiful and historic square in Cartagena's Old Town, appreciating its architecture and vibrant local life. The chance to witness unique moments, like the pigeon feeding, adds a special charm. However, the lack of shade can make it uncomfortably hot during peak hours.
"Plaza de la Proclamación is a beautiful, historic square in the heart of Cartagena’s old town, right across from Bolívar Park and next to the Cathedral. Anchored by the stunningly restored Palacio de la Proclamación, now a cultural center. A statue of Pope John Paul II stands at the entrance to the plaza, and the entire space feels alive with history, architecture, and local life.
During my visit to the Plaza, I came across an elderly man sitting quietly with a few bags of corn. As I approached, he stood and as if on cue, birds flew to him, perching on his hands, shoulders, even his head.
He fed them in a way I had never seen before: holding kernels between his teeth, letting the pigeons gently take them from his mouth. The trust between them was astonishing, clearly nurtured over many quiet, patient encounters.
He welcomed me to take photos without asking for anything in return. His kindness and the silent bond he shared with the birds left a deep impression on me. I offered him 20,000 pesos as a small thank you.
In the heart of a bustling city, this quiet, beautiful moment reminded me that connection and gentleness still thrive, often in the most unexpected places."
Alex Pan
"Amazing history and vibe. Lots to see in a short walk. Great stores, vendors and restaurants"
Paul Mitchell
"Interesting old town to visit while we were on our cruise vacation."
David Ly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de la Proclamación is located in the heart of Cartagena's historic Old Town, easily accessible by foot from most hotels in the area. If you're coming from further afield, taxis or ride-sharing services are readily available and will drop you off nearby. It's a central point, often visited alongside Bolívar Park and the Cathedral.
Absolutely! It's situated directly across from Bolívar Park and adjacent to the Cartagena Cathedral, making it incredibly convenient to explore these iconic landmarks on foot.
Taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber are your best bet. They can drop you off at the edge of the walled city, and it's a short, pleasant walk from there to the plaza.
Parking within the historic Old Town can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to rely on taxis or public transport and enjoy a walk through the charming streets to reach the plaza.
While public buses serve Cartagena, navigating their routes to the exact center of the Old Town can be complex for tourists. Taxis or walking are usually more straightforward options for reaching this specific plaza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza de la Proclamación is a public square and is completely free to enter and explore. You can wander through it at any time.
As an open public space, the plaza is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding buildings like the Palacio de la Proclamación will have their own operating hours if you wish to visit them.
The Palacio de la Proclamación often hosts cultural events and exhibitions. While entry to the plaza itself is free, there might be admission fees or booking requirements for specific events or exhibitions held within the Palacio. It's best to check their schedule.
Yes, the plaza is open at night and can offer a different, more tranquil atmosphere. However, be mindful of your surroundings and personal belongings, as with any public space after dark.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting the plaza itself. However, it's a place of historical and cultural significance, so respectful behavior is expected.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
The beautifully restored Palacio de la Proclamación, the Pope John Paul II statue, and the charming interactions with local vendors and pigeons offer fantastic photo opportunities. The architecture and vibrant local life make for memorable shots.
Crowds can vary. It tends to be busier during peak tourist seasons and midday. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can offer a more relaxed experience.
The statue commemorates the visit of Pope John Paul II to Cartagena. It's a prominent landmark and a point of interest for many visitors.
You might see locals feeding the pigeons, creating a unique spectacle. While you can observe and photograph this, it's best to let the locals manage the feeding to ensure the birds are cared for properly.
The plaza has a lively yet historic atmosphere. It's a place where you can feel the pulse of Cartagena, observe daily life, and appreciate the blend of colonial architecture and modern activity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the plaza itself might not have many sit-down restaurants, it's surrounded by numerous options in the historic Old Town. You'll find cafes, street food vendors, and restaurants within a short walking distance.
Expect a wide variety, from traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa and arepas to fresh seafood and international cuisine. Street vendors often offer local snacks and refreshing drinks.
Many travelers enjoy street food in Cartagena. It's advisable to choose vendors that appear clean and popular, and to opt for freshly prepared items.
Yes, the historic center is dotted with charming cafes offering excellent Colombian coffee. You'll easily find a spot to relax and enjoy a cup.
While traditional Colombian cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in the tourist areas are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's worth asking or checking menus.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the sun, as shade is minimal. Bring plenty of water, hats, and sunscreen. The plaza's proximity to Bolívar Park, which often has more open space and sometimes street performers, makes it easy to combine visits for a more varied family outing. Keep an eye out for street vendors selling snacks and refreshing drinks.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own snacks and water, as prices can be higher in the immediate vicinity of major tourist spots. Explore the surrounding streets for more affordable local eateries rather than the most prominent cafes. Walking is the best way to get here if you're staying in or near the Old Town, saving on transportation costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Cartagena's History
The presence of the Pope John Paul II statue adds another layer of significance, marking a moment in the city's more recent history. This statue, often a point of interaction for visitors, stands as a symbol of faith and remembrance. The entire plaza is designed to be a space where history is not just observed but felt, with its architecture and layout inviting contemplation and appreciation of Cartagena's enduring legacy.
Moments of Unexpected Connection
This scene serves as a powerful reminder that even in well-trodden tourist spots, moments of genuine humanity and simple beauty can be found. The man's willingness to share this personal ritual, and his kindness in allowing photos without expectation, left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it. It underscores the idea that travel is not just about seeing sights, but about experiencing the subtle, heartwarming stories that unfold in unexpected places.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit