Cartagena: Mediterranean Jewel of Spain ✨
Just left Madrid behind for Cartagena - one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities! Founded in 1184 BC, this historic gem truly flourished when Romans conquered it in 209 BC, renaming it Cartago Nova (like New York to York!). Today, its 200,000 residents guard incredible treasures like the magnificent Roman Theatre. 🏙️ Stunning City Center: Glistening tiled streets 🏻✨ (every step feels luxurious) Perfectly preserved facades 🏛️ (time-capsule architecture) Charming boutique shops between ancient columns ⚓ Strategic Port City: Spain's important oil & gas trade hub ⛽ Nearby La Manga strip - breathtaking summer resort where you can see: Mar Mayor ("Big Sea" - the Mediterranean) 🌊 Mar Menor ("Small Sea" - shallow saltwater lagoon perfect for kids) 🏖️ 🌍 Fun History Fact: Romans called the Mediterranean "Mare Nostrum" (Our Sea) since they controlled ALL its shores! Talk about imperial confidence 😎 #SpainTravel #Cartagena #RomanHistory #MediterraneanGem #OffTheBeatenPath #CulturalTravel #HistoricCities #WeekendEscape #TravelSpain