Monumento Torre del Reloj, also called Puerta del Reloj or Boca del Puente, is the historic gateway between Cartagena’s walled Old Town and Getsemaní. Its clock-topped arches mark a natural starting point for exploring the city: pass through to Plaza de los Coches, with its arcades and colorful buildings, or browse stalls beneath the gate. The entrance once formed part of Cartagena’s defenses, and nearby squares, street food and local crafts make it easy to linger before heading into the historic center.
A gateway between the Old Town and Getsemaní
The Torre del Reloj is the main historic entrance to Cartagena’s walled center. It is also known as Puerta del Reloj, meaning Clock Gate, and Boca del Puente. The gateway stands between Plaza de la Independencia and Plaza de los Coches, linking the Old Town with Getsemaní.
The passage is an easy place to orient yourself. Walk through the arches and you reach Plaza de los Coches, a square lined with arcades and colorful buildings. From there, the historic center’s plazas and streets are close by. Getsemaní lies on the other side of the gate.
The gate’s defensive past
During the colonial period, a wooden drawbridge crossed a moat between the gate and Getsemaní. It helped protect the city from attack and connected the walled center with the neighborhood beyond it. The gate’s side arches had earlier uses as a chapel and an armoury; today, they form walkways through the structure.
The tower and clock were added at different points in the gate’s history. The clock was installed in the early 18th century, while accounts of the structure also date the tower’s beginnings to 1601 and describe its later reconstruction in the 19th century. Its clock-topped profile is now one of Cartagena’s recognizable city symbols.
What to see around the monument
Take time to look at the tower and the stone walls that extend from it before crossing into Plaza de los Coches. The square is a useful first stop for seeing the architecture around the entrance. Vendors beneath the passage sell items that include handmade domino sets, musical instruments, used books and wool shoulder bags made by Kogi craftspeople from the Santa Marta area.
You may also encounter street performers in the open space in front of the gate. For a longer walk, continue into the Old Town’s squares or head toward Getsemaní. The city walls nearby are a good choice around sunset; rooftop bars around the monument provide another way to take in the evening atmosphere.
FAQ
What is the Torre del Reloj?
It is Cartagena’s clock-topped historic city gate, also known as Puerta del Reloj and Boca del Puente. It marks the entrance to the walled Old Town.
What is on the other side of the gate?
Plaza de los Coches is directly beyond the passage, with arcades and colorful buildings. The gate also links the Old Town with Getsemaní.
How long should I spend at the Torre del Reloj?
The input does not give a typical visit duration. You can stop to see the gate and continue into Plaza de los Coches or nearby streets.
When is a good time to visit?
Sunset suits a walk along the nearby walls or a visit to a rooftop bar. For fewer crowds, go when no cruise ships are in port.
