Plaza de La Trinidad (Trinity Square), Cartagena

Plaza de la Trinidad in Cartagena's Getsemaní takes its name from the eponymous church, La Iglesia de la Santísima Trinidad, located right in front of it, completed in 1643.

The square is historically significant as the place of the country's first independence movement, the rebellion of Gethsemane lancers, in 1811, headed by blacksmith Pedro Romero. It ultimately led to the declaration of independence of what was then known as the city of Cartagena de Indias from the Spanish crown, some 11 years before the rest of the country became independent. Following the event, the square was renamed Plaza de la Libertad (Freedom Square).

Today, there is a sculpture in the plaza paying tribute to Pedro Romero. Created by artist Nora Quintana, the sculptural group (made of fiberglass, resin and bronze patina) features Romero with his fist raised high in the air, accompanied by the Franciscan priest Father Umaña, and a Drummer.

Lately, the bohemian air of Getsemaní neighborhood found its way to this area in the form of graffiti. Alluding to the life and customs of the city, the graffiti create the image of a colonial-era plaza “disguised as a modern spot”, all the more beautiful in its own rustic way.

A piece of wall art to be noted in particular here is the picture-perfect mural of a black bird called Maria Mulata, which is the official bird of Cartagena. Painted by Colombian artist and graphic designer, Yurika MDC, at a glance, it seems just like an ordinary bird painted on yellow background, with some flashing lights of different colors added for decoration. However, locals know that, when the sun hits the bird from certain angles, these bright colors come to a full, meaningful display. Reportedly, the artist borrowed the idea for the mural from an old story told by a longtime Getsemaní resident.

Attractive by day, the square is also one of the coolest hangouts at night thanks to the street performers, food stands, and dine-in restaurants located nearby, largely stimulating the attendance by tourists and locals alike.