The El Fuerte de Navidad fortress stands at the entrance of the Cartagena port as a key piece of the defensive belt designed in the 18th century to close the entrance from both banks. It did not act alone: it complemented and crossed its fire with that of the Trincabotijas, Santa Ana, San Leandro batteries and other positions of the Bourbon system. Together, they formed an artillery "comb" designed to prevent any enemy fleet from crossing the channel. Its horseshoe-shaped layout, open to the sea, was reformed in the 19th century to adapt to muzzle-loading artillery and later to larger caliber pieces. However, all that technical deployment had a paradoxical fate: the Fuerte de Navidad never engaged in real combat and the fortress was relegated to protocol functions, such as performing honor salutes and naval ceremonies, more symbolic than defensive.

via google · 11/29/2025

It was free entry on Sunday at 3:30-5:30pm. But I honestly do not think it’s worth paying for it or really want o visits I think you can a better view of the ocean from another hill. It’s small and there really isn’t much to see unless you want to go just to say you went.

via google · 10/12/2025

Congratulations on one of the lowest-lying ruined fortresses in Cartagena! My partner and I were walking and wanted to admire it, but two young people asked us for 8 euros.... I tell you what? We only have a bank card... so we didn't look at it. Shame on you! We went up one level, the view is amazing! Don't be fooled!

via google · 8/30/2025

When visited at night, the return is safe, but during the day it is not. The location is unbeatable for wonderful views of Cartagena. The path is complex, whether you are running or walking (you need to be very careful because there are no edges...).

via google · 8/6/2025

We took a small boat trip with a stop at Fuerte de Navidad, and it was incredibly rewarding. At Fuerte de Navidad, they shared the history with great detail and told us some interesting facts.

via google · 7/25/2025

The entry fee is €4 per adult, and while the fort isn’t very large, it offers great views of the sea and surrounding coastline. Parking can be a bit tricky – there's only one small lot nearby, which is shared with the restaurant next to the path leading to the lighthouse. If it's full, you can park a bit further along the main road and walk. Overall, it's a nice stop if you're already visiting the lighthouse or the nearby restaurant.

via google · 6/24/2025

It's worth visiting by tourist boat. The guide who assisted us explained everything very well. Another piece of history from this great city.

via google · 8/27/2024

On the Tourist Boat you pay a small amount extra for the Harbour trip if you want to get off at Fuerte Navidad. It is interesting and can definitely spend enough time to take in the history of this Fort. Then you can get onto the next Harbour trip boat which arrives approximately in 1hr. The staff and guides at the Fort are there to help and you can have a guided tour. The is also a machine to get a drink and snack.

via google · 7/13/2023

I walked up and your door was closed. I didn't knock, so I guess I only saw the outside. I came here for the lighthouse anyway. I wonder if they somehow knew I was coming?

via google · 2/13/2023

We took the tourist boat to the Christmas fort, where we spent an hour. If you want the staff on-site to explain the history of the fort and each of its rooms, you need to buy a ticket that includes that; otherwise, there are informational panels on the walls. The views are wonderful.

via google · 8/9/2022