Cartagena

Cartagena, the ancient port city founded by the Carthaginian Asdrúbal the Beautiful, is a monumental starting point for a branch of the South West Way. Starting your pilgrimage here immerses you in 3,000 years of history. The principal treasure of the city is its spectacular Roman Theatre, recently discovered and restored, which has become an icon. The legacy of Punic, Roman, and Byzantine cultures can be seen throughout the city, from the Roman Forum Quarter to the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. For pilgrims, Cartagena offers a culturally overwhelming starting point. The trail begins at its natural port, one of the most important in the Mediterranean, to venture into the interior of the Region of Murcia. It's an alternative that allows you to discover a unique heritage before linking up with the main route coming from Alicante. With a complete range of services, starting the Camino de Santiago in Cartagena is a lesson in ancient history as a prelude to a long pilgrimage.