Category: Colombia

Medieval Castles in Colombia

Colombia might not be the first place you think of when it comes to medieval castles, but it has a fascinating twist on them. Instead of the old castles you find in Europe, Colombia’s castles mix European styles with its own colonial and indigenous influences. This blend creates a unique set of buildings that, while not exactly like medieval ones from Europe, still capture the feel of that time. These special buildings tell stories from Colombia’s past, starting from before Columbus came, through the time when Spain was in charge, up to after Colombia became independent.

List of Top 10 Castles in Colombia

San Felipe de Barajas Castle – Located in Cartagena, this fortress is one of the most impressive military structures in South America.

Castillo San Carlos de Borromeo – Situated in Riohacha, this castle served as a defense against pirate attacks during the colonial era.

Castillo de San Antonio de Salgar – Found in Puerto Colombia, this castle overlooks the Caribbean Sea and was once used for defense.

Castillo de San Fernando de Bocachica – This fortress, located in Bocachica, protected the entrance to Cartagena’s harbor.

Castillo de San Luis de Bocachica – Another fortress in Bocachica, this one guarded the northern entrance to Cartagena’s bay.

Fortaleza de San Sebastián de Pastelillo – Situated in Cartagena, this fort played a role in defending the city from attacks.

Castillo de la Roca – Located in La Mesa de los Santos, Santander, this castle-like structure offers panoramic views of the Chicamocha Canyon and surrounding landscapes.

Castillo de San Felipe – Located in Mompox, this fortification helped protect the town from pirate raids.

Fortín de San Bernardo – Situated in Sincelejo, this fort defended the area against attacks during colonial times.

Castillo de San Antonio de Palmitas – Found in Yondo, this castle was constructed to protect the region from indigenous uprisings.

Colombia doesn’t have heaps of medieval castles like Europe does, but it does have some cool forts and castle-like buildings inspired by medieval times. These places, numbering in the dozens, are mainly found in places like Cartagena, Bogotá, and other historic cities. They were mostly built during the time when Colombia was a Spanish colony. Some were forts to protect against attacks, some were homes for rich folks, and some were symbols of power.

Popular Castles in Colombia

One of the most famous is the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas in Cartagena. It’s a huge fortress built to keep pirates away from the city. It’s got big walls, secret tunnels, and a great spot for defending the city. Another important one is the Castillo de San Carlos de Borromeo in Mompox, which was key in protecting against pirates coming through the inland routes. Then there’s Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino in Santa Marta, which isn’t a castle but still has that old-timey charm.

What Makes Colombian Castles Different

Colombian castles aren’t just copies of European ones; they mix local style with Spanish ideas. They use materials from the area, fit in with the tropical landscape, and blend defense with comfort. Plus, each castle has its own story, whether it’s about fights for land or love stories from long ago.