Throughout Latin America, you can find stunning churches built during the Spanish colonial period. These churches demonstrate the power that the Catholic church had around the world and give a look into the interesting world of colonialism and imperialism that characterized the 16th – 19th centuries.
Santuario de San Pedro Claver and Catedral Santa Catalina (also known as the Cathedral of Cartagena) are located inside the city walls and the Iglesia de la Trinidad is located just a short walk away. The churches offer a great respite from the heat and noise of the city and a trip to Cartagena isn’t complete without visiting some of the city’s most famous churches.
Santuario de San Pedro Claver
This stunning 16th-century church is built in Spanish colonial style. It is part of a larger complex that includes the Cloister of San Pedro Claver and the archaeological museum. It was built between 1580 and 1654. Inside the church, you can find the relics of Saint Peter Claver who spent his entire life helping the black slaves of New Granada. He visited every incoming slave ship offering medical aid and teaching Christianity. He also went to the plantations and requested slaves be treated humanely by their masters. He is now the Patron Saint of Colombia.
