Thanks to its strategic position on the Mediterranean, Cartagena has long been one of the most important naval ports in Spain. Its maritime history can be appreciated with visits to the naval museum and naval buildings, including the Naval Headquarters, Dockyard Gate and Midshipman School.

Cartagena also boasts an interesting Roman history. The city's bullring sits atop a Roman amphitheater, and the Old Cathedral was built over the stalls of the Roman Theater. Discovered in 1987 and still being excavated, the theater dates to the first century BC.

While its landmarks from antiquity certainly are intriguing, Cartagena's lively streets and attractive squares reveal chapters from more recent centuries as well. The magnificent Concepción Castle, perched above the city in Torres Park, dates to the 14th century. Even closer to present day are the early 19th-century modernist buildings lining Calle Mayor, and beautiful City Hall, which was built in 1907.