Las Botas Viejas

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Description

Las Botas Viejas—literally “The Old Boots”—is one of those quirky, oddly charming landmarks that you stumble upon and can’t help but smile at. It’s a pair of giant bronze boots, sitting proudly at the foot of Cartagena’s Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. The sculpture honors the beloved Colombian poet Luis Carlos López, who famously compared his hometown to “old boots” in one of his poems. And somehow, that affectionate metaphor became a physical tribute that locals and travelers alike adore.

Standing before those oversized boots, it’s hard not to feel a sense of warmth. They’re playful, a little whimsical, and yet they carry real cultural weight. The bronze gleam catches the Caribbean sun, and if you visit during late afternoon, the light makes the boots glow with a golden hue that’s perfect for photos. You’ll often see people climbing inside them, posing for a snapshot, or just sitting nearby with a cold drink, taking in the view of the fortress behind. It’s not a huge monument, but it’s the kind of spot that sticks in your memory long after you’ve left.

What I personally love about Las Botas Viejas is how it feels both deeply local and totally universal. Locals see it as a nod to Cartagena’s identity—proud, worn, and full of stories—while travelers see it as a fun, unexpected find. Sure, it’s not as grand as the city walls or as polished as the plazas, but that’s the charm. It’s imperfect, a bit weathered, and that’s exactly what makes it real.

Key Features

• Massive bronze sculpture paying tribute to poet Luis Carlos López
• Located near the historic Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
• Open-air public monument—no entry fee required
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking area
• Family-friendly spot that kids usually find fascinating
• Popular photo opportunity with panoramic city views
• Surrounded by local vendors selling souvenirs and refreshments

You might not expect a pair of boots to inspire so much affection, but this place has that magic. There’s something oddly human about it. Maybe it’s because López’s poem captures the spirit of Cartagena—aged but enduring, humble yet proud. Over time, the sculpture has become a symbol of that same spirit. And while some visitors think it’s just a quick stop for a photo, others linger, soaking in the easy rhythm of the place.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Las Botas Viejas, timing can make all the difference. Cartagena’s heat can be relentless, especially around midday. Early morning or late afternoon is the sweet spot. The light is softer, the crowds thinner, and you’ll get those dreamy photos without breaking a sweat. I once went around 5 p.m.—the sun was dipping low, and the fortress behind the boots looked almost cinematic. It’s also when locals come out for a stroll, so you’ll catch a more authentic vibe.

Cartagena’s dry season, roughly from December to April, tends to be the most comfortable for sightseeing. The skies are clear, and the humidity isn’t as punishing. That said, even during the rainy months, the showers are usually short-lived. If you don’t mind a little unpredictability, you’ll still find the city buzzing with life year-round. And honestly, a light drizzle can make the bronze boots shine even more beautifully.

How to Get There

Reaching Las Botas Viejas is pretty straightforward. It’s located near one of Cartagena’s most famous landmarks, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, so most taxi or rideshare drivers will know exactly where to take you. If you’re staying in the walled city or Bocagrande, it’s just a short drive—usually under ten minutes depending on traffic.

For those who enjoy walking, you can make it part of a longer stroll through Cartagena’s historic areas. The path from the fortress to the boots is lined with local vendors, and you’ll likely pass a few street performers and food stalls along the way. It’s not the most shaded route, though, so bring water and maybe a hat if you’re walking in the afternoon sun.

Public transportation is another option, though it’s less common for tourists. Local buses and mototaxis pass nearby, but unless you’re comfortable navigating the routes, a taxi or rideshare app is the easiest bet. The area is well-connected, and you’ll find plenty of drivers waiting nearby, especially since it’s a popular tourist stop.

Tips for Visiting

There’s a certain rhythm to visiting Las Botas Viejas that’s worth leaning into. It’s not a place you rush through—it’s one you experience. Here are a few tips that might help you make the most of your stop.

• Go early or late: The midday sun can be intense, and the crowds can make it tricky to get a good photo. Early morning light is soft, and the place feels peaceful.
• Bring water: There’s not much shade around, and while vendors sell drinks, it’s always better to have your own.
• Mind your belongings: Like any tourist spot, keep an eye on your bag, especially when taking photos.
• Combine it with nearby attractions: The fortress is just steps away, and you can easily visit both in one go.
• Interact with locals: The souvenir sellers and guides love sharing stories about the sculpture and the poet behind it. A quick chat can add a whole new layer to your visit.
• Skip the restroom search: There aren’t public restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly before you arrive.

One thing I noticed the first time I visited was how many people seemed genuinely delighted by the simplicity of it. No ticket lines, no over-the-top displays—just a pair of boots that somehow capture the soul of the city. And that’s the beauty of it. It’s a reminder that travel doesn’t always have to be about grand sights; sometimes, it’s the small, unexpected places that stick with you the longest.

If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll probably love climbing into the boots for a photo. Just be mindful—those bronze surfaces can get hot under the sun. And if you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate the connection between the sculpture and Cartagena’s literary heritage. López’s poem, though written long ago, still resonates deeply with locals. There’s a quiet pride in how the city embraces its past without trying to polish away the rough edges.

In the end, Las Botas Viejas isn’t just another monument—it’s a symbol of Cartagena’s character. It’s humble, enduring, and a little bit cheeky. You might come for the photo, but you’ll leave with a story. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll think about those old boots long after you’ve gone, wondering how something so simple can say so much about a place.

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