The Monument to Carmen Conde is a bronze sculpture dedicated to the influential Cartagena writer and academic, Carmen Conde Abellán. Erected to mark the centenary of her birth, this statue is located on Calle del Carmen, directly across from the church of the same name. It captures Conde seated on a bench, holding a book and wearing a wedding ring engraved with her husband’s name, Antonio. This artwork, created by local sculptor Juan José Quirós Illán, serves as a tribute to Conde's significant contributions to literature and education, including her role as one of the first women to be a member of the Royal Spanish Academy.
Visitors to the monument can enjoy a moment of reflection in a pedestrian-friendly area, where many stop to take photos or simply sit beside the statue. The setting is lively, with passersby often pausing to admire the sculpture and learn about Conde's legacy. The presence of a QR code nearby provides additional information about her life and achievements, making it an educational stop as well. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, allowing for a brief but meaningful encounter with Cartagena's literary history.
The monument is accessible year-round and is free to visit, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. It is located in a central area of Cartagena, so you can easily reach it on foot from other nearby attractions. The best time to visit is during the day when the area is bustling with activity, but it can also be a peaceful spot in the early morning or late afternoon. If you're interested in local history, take a moment to sit on the bench next to Conde and appreciate the significance of this remarkable figure in Spanish literature.