The Palacio de la Inquisición stands in Cartagena, Colombia, on the Caribbean coast of South America. It is a colonial palace dating from the 17th century, and its striking baroque facade and detailed stonework make it one of the more distinctive heritage buildings in the city.
What you will see
Today the palace is a museum. Its exhibits document the presence of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena, which makes the visit as much a historical experience as an architectural one. The building itself is part of the story: the carved stone and the baroque detailing of the facade reflect the colonial period in which the palace was built.
- Architecture: a baroque facade and detailed stonework from the 17th century
- Museum: displays that document the Inquisition's presence in Cartagena
- Setting: a heritage site in a city known for its colonial core
Who it suits
The palace is a good fit for visitors interested in colonial history, religious history, or Spanish-era architecture. Those who enjoy looking closely at old buildings will find plenty to notice in the facade and stonework, while history readers will appreciate the focus on the Inquisition in this part of the Americas.
Around the palace
Because the museum sits in Cartagena, it can easily be combined with a walk through the wider colonial city, with its historic streets and other heritage sites. Plan the visit as one stop in a longer day of exploring the old town.