MUST SEE Santa Cruz de Mompox 🇨🇴 Colombia
Santa Cruz de Mompox: A Timeless Detour for Salty Souls
For sailors who have danced with the Caribbean winds, dropped anchor beneath Spanish fortresses, and chased the equator’s arc across Colombia’s coastlines, the idea of turning inland might seem counterintuitive. After all, most adventures on the water take place, well, on the water.
But sometimes, it’s worth stepping off the deck and into a different current , a slower, older rhythm that flows not with tides, but with stories. Welcome to Santa Cruz de Mompox, Colombia’s best-kept inland secret and one of the most rewarding side trips you can make from Cartagena or Santa Marta. This is not a port town. It’s a place marooned in time, tethered to the mighty Magdalena River, and glowing with the golden patina of centuries past.
You won’t sail your boat here. But once you visit, you’ll carry it with you long after your hull is back on saltwater. For the cruiser in search of real culture, deep history, and something a little off the gringo trail, Mompox is a detour worth taking.
1. A Sailor’s Reason to Go Ashore ( you could go by dinghy ...)
From a nautical perspective, Colombia is already generous: coral-fringed bays, world-class cities like Cartagena, and tropical havens such as the Rosario Islands or Tayrona National Park. So why should a cruising sailor carve out several days to visit a landlocked town three hours up the river delta?
Because Mompox isn’t just another inland destination , it’s a preserved slice of Spanish colonial history, an unspoiled world that skipped industrialization and kept its soul intact. It's the kind of place that reminds you why you started this journey in the first place: for discovery, perspective, and the stories that hide behind headlands.
Unlike coastal towns where tourism has reshaped daily life, Mompox offers something different. It’s lived-in, authentic, a place where nobody is trying to sell you a tour. It’s Colombia with its guard down, its heart wide open. And best of all , it’s still far enough off the radar that you won’t find it overrun.
2. How to Get There (and Where to Leave the Boat)
Getting to Mompox from the coast requires commitment, but it's a well-trodden route for the determined traveler.
• From Cartagena: Leave your vessel in one of the city’s marinas (Club de Pesca, Club Náutico, or Marina Santa Cruz) and arrange a van or bus via Mompox Express or a trusted driver. The journey takes 6–8 hours depending on road conditions.
• From Santa Marta: Also possible with a combination of private car and river ferry. It’s a bit longer, but the road is scenic and remote.
• Best Time to Visit: November through March offers the driest conditions and most navigable roads. Avoid peak Semana Santa unless you're going specifically for the religious processions.
You won’t miss the sea , because the town sits beside a broad tributary of the Magdalena River and has its own waterfront magic. It's just freshwater, not brine.
3. Mompox Is Magic, Not a Museum
Walk into the heart of Mompox, and time slackens like a sail in dead air. There are no cruise ship terminals, no international chains, and no traffic lights. Horses still outnumber motorbikes on some streets, and iron balconies hang from whitewashed walls like lace.
Founded in 1537, Mompox once rivaled Cartagena in importance. It was a safe inland storehouse for gold and trade during the colonial era, but as the Magdalena’s flow shifted and transport routes changed, the town was bypassed , left out of the modern world. That abandonment became a blessing.
Unlike many colonial cities that were modernized, Mompox was preserved. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most authentic colonial towns in Latin America, with six major churches, a dreamy riverside malecón, and a plaza where little seems to have changed in 300 years.
But Mompox isn’t fossilized. People live here, celebrate, grieve, gossip, flirt, and fall in love here. You won’t walk through it like a museum , you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a living novel.
4. Highlights for Cruisers Ashore
Even if your legs are still swaying from the last passage, Mompox will ground you. Here are some experiences that make the trip worthwhile:
a) The Riverside Walk at Sunset
Start at the old ferry dock and wander along the river. The light softens over the water, children play soccer in dusty alleys, and vendors sell fried snacks and tamarind juice under ancient trees. It’s serenity served slow, with just the right amount of edge.
b) Iglesia Santa Bárbara
This ochre-colored church is Mompox’s icon, with its unique Moorish bell tower and baroque altarpiece. Built in 1613, it's still in use today and anchors the town’s spiritual identity.
c) Filigree Workshops
Mompox is world-renowned for its intricate gold and silver filigree jewelry, crafted by hand using centuries-old methods. Visit a working taller (workshop) and you’ll see artisans spinning metal into spiders, leaves, and sacred hearts, often barefoot and humming vallenato ballads.
d) Cemetery of Mompox
Far from gloomy, this whitewashed cemetery is poetic and peaceful. Tombstones here tell stories of explorers, poets, and revolutionaries. The silence, broken only by birds, is contemplative , a sailor's place to pause.
e) Colonial Mansions Turned Boutique Stays
Stay at a 17th-century house turned into a boutique inn like Casa Amarilla or Portal de la Marquesa, where tiled courtyards and hammocks whisper stories of conquistadors and revolutionaries.
5. A Revolutionary Pulse
Few visitors realize that Mompox played a critical role in Latin American independence. In fact, it was one of the first towns to declare total independence from Spain, on August 6, 1810 , six months before Cartagena.
Simón Bolívar, the Liberator himself, famously said, “If to Caracas I owe my life, then to Mompox I owe my glory.” He recruited hundreds of Mompoxanos to join his campaign to free Venezuela. That fiery spirit still simmers under the town’s quiet surface.
For history lovers, the Casa de los Apóstoles and local museums paint a rich picture of this revolutionary legacy. But even without visiting a single exhibit, you’ll feel it in the air , Mompox is proud, dignified, and just a little defiant.
6. For the Culture-Hungry
This is a town that sings. Literally. Music spills from courtyards, bars, and riverboats at all hours. Traditional vallenato , with its accordion-led heartache and bravado , still reigns, though cumbia, porro, and Afro-Colombian rhythms also ripple through the streets.
Cultural festivals abound:
• Semana Santa (Holy Week): One of the most elaborate and haunting in Latin America, with candlelit processions, centuries-old rituals, and intense emotion.
• Jazz Festival (October): An unexpected surprise , international jazz musicians converge in Mompox, blending improvisation with history in candlelit plazas.
• Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen (July): A maritime-flavored celebration where riverboats are adorned like floats and the faithful set firecrackers on the water.
These aren’t tourist acts , they’re lifelines of local culture. Pull up a chair and you’ll likely be handed an aguardiente and pulled into a dance.
7. A Place for Reflection
After days at sea, your brain adjusts to wind, horizon, and motion. Coming inland, things slow differently. In Mompox, there’s time to reflect , not because you must, but because the town invites it.
Sit by the river at night and watch the moon flicker on the current. Listen to the hum of frogs and diesel panga engines in the distance. Here, you're not measuring anchor chain or barometer drops. You're watching the world unfold like smoke.
Mompox is one of the rare places where you remember that travel isn’t just about movement. It’s about meaning. And the farther you get from the coast, the closer you sometimes get to yourself.
8. Return to the Sea, Changed
There’s a moment every cruiser knows: standing on land, looking back toward the water, knowing you’re headed home , to your boat, your element, your moving house on the sea. After Mompox, that return is bittersweet. You’re rested. You’ve breathed deeper. You’ve remembered something.
The sea will still be there , your anchorages, your vessel in the marina attached with docklines, your sails. Take the detour. Mompox is waiting
La Fortaleza San Juan Puerto Rico
La Fortaleza San Juan Puerto Rico
La Fortaleza: The Historic Heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico
Introduction
La Fortaleza, a majestic fortress in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, stands as one of the oldest executive mansions in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere. Since its construction in the 16th century, it has served not only as a protective bastion against invaders but also as the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. The structure, blending military architecture with colonial elegance, has witnessed centuries of history, conflicts, and transformations. This article explores La Fortaleza’s rich past, architectural significance, strategic role, and cultural impact on Puerto Rico.
Historical Background
The construction of La Fortaleza was initiated in 1533 under the Spanish Crown’s directive. Spain, recognizing the strategic importance of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean, sought to fortify San Juan against European rivals and pirate incursions. Originally designed as a simple fortification, La Fortaleza quickly evolved into a key defensive structure.
By 1540, the fort's construction was completed with a rudimentary structure that failed to deter attacks from privateers and enemy forces. In 1598, the English, led by the Earl of Cumberland, captured San Juan, momentarily seizing La Fortaleza. Just a few decades later, in 1625, the Dutch also managed to overtake the fort, further proving its initial weaknesses. These invasions prompted major renovations and reinforcements, transforming La Fortaleza into a more formidable stronghold.
Over the centuries, La Fortaleza underwent numerous expansions, incorporating more complex defensive elements and aesthetic enhancements. Its role gradually shifted from a purely military installation to an administrative and residential center, housing Puerto Rico’s governors since the 16th century.
Architectural Significance
La Fortaleza exemplifies Spanish colonial military architecture while integrating Renaissance and Baroque elements. The structure features thick masonry walls, arched doorways, and a combination of defensive towers and elegant residential spaces. One of its most striking components is the circular Tower of Homage, which is among the earliest parts of the fortress. This tower originally served as a lookout point to monitor incoming ships and potential threats.
In addition to its defensive features, La Fortaleza boasts refined interior spaces that have evolved over time to accommodate the needs of its gubernatorial residents. The structure includes beautiful courtyards, lush gardens, grand halls, and elaborate balconies with views of San Juan Bay. These elements reflect the fusion of military utility and aristocratic residence that defines La Fortaleza.
Throughout its history, various architects have contributed to modifications that have given La Fortaleza its unique character. Notable expansions occurred in the 19th century, introducing neoclassical elements and further reinforcing its role as an executive mansion.
Role in Puerto Rico’s Defense
La Fortaleza played a critical role in protecting San Juan and the Spanish interests in the Caribbean. Along with Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, La Fortaleza formed part of an intricate defensive network designed to repel naval assaults. Positioned strategically along the entrance to San Juan Bay, it provided a first line of defense against enemy fleets attempting to seize control of Puerto Rico.
Despite its reinforcements, La Fortaleza’s primary function shifted as other, more advanced fortifications took precedence in military defense. By the 18th century, it was primarily used as the governor’s residence and an administrative center rather than a primary military stronghold.
The Seat of Government
Since the Spanish colonial era, La Fortaleza has served as the home and office of Puerto Rico’s governors. The tradition has continued through Puerto Rico’s transition from Spanish rule to U.S. territorial governance. Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, Puerto Rico became a U.S. territory, and La Fortaleza remained the executive mansion.
The site has witnessed key political moments, including the establishment of Puerto Rico’s local self-government in the 20th century. In 1952, when Puerto Rico adopted its own constitution as a Commonwealth of the United States, La Fortaleza continued as the official governor’s residence.
Cultural and Symbolic Importance
La Fortaleza is not just a governmental building; it is a profound symbol of Puerto Rico’s resilience, heritage, and evolving identity. It has become a representation of the island’s historical struggles, from colonial rule to its present-day political status.
The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and architectural value. Tourists and historians alike visit La Fortaleza to appreciate its beauty and significance. The site also hosts official state functions, welcoming dignitaries and cultural events that celebrate Puerto Rico’s heritage.
Throughout history, La Fortaleza has also been the site of protests and political movements. Puerto Ricans have gathered outside its gates to express their aspirations for political change, whether advocating for greater autonomy, statehood, or other reforms.
Restoration and Preservation
Given its historical importance, extensive efforts have been made to preserve La Fortaleza. Conservation projects have focused on restoring its walls, maintaining its gardens, and reinforcing the structure against environmental damage. The tropical climate, humidity, and occasional hurricanes pose continuous challenges to the fortress’s upkeep.
Restoration work is carried out under the supervision of historians, architects, and government agencies to ensure authenticity in preserving the original design while accommodating modern requirements. UNESCO and other preservation organizations have contributed resources to safeguarding the site for future generations.
Tourism and Public Access
La Fortaleza is a major attraction for visitors to Old San Juan. Guided tours provide insights into its history, architecture, and political role. Visitors can explore its grand rooms, gardens, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the bay.
The fortress is part of the larger historic district of Old San Juan, where cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and other landmarks such as El Morro and San Cristóbal fortresses create a rich cultural experience.
Beyond its historical exhibitions, La Fortaleza occasionally hosts art exhibitions, cultural performances, and holiday celebrations, further integrating it into Puerto Rico’s contemporary cultural life.
Through ongoing preservation efforts, La Fortaleza continues to serve as both a historical monument and a living symbol of governance. Its walls, having withstood centuries of change, continue to tell the story of Puerto Rico’s past, present, and future.
CATHEDRAL ALCÁZAR AND ARCHIVO DE INDIAS SEVILLE 🇪🇸 SPAIN
CATHEDRAL ALCÁZAR - ARCHIVO DE INDIAS SEVILLE 🇪🇸 SPAIN
1. The Cathedral of Seville
Overview:
The Cathedral of Seville, formally known as the Catedral de Santa María de la Sede, is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Built between 1401 and 1519, the cathedral was constructed on the site of the former Almohad Mosque, symbolizing the city’s Christian reconquest.
Key Features:
- Giralda Tower: Originally the mosque’s minaret, the Giralda was repurposed as a bell tower. Its Moorish design, crowned by a Renaissance bell structure, showcases Seville’s layered history.
- Main Altar: The world’s largest Gothic altarpiece is an intricate gilded depiction of biblical scenes, a testament to the artistry of the Spanish Renaissance.
- Christopher Columbus’ Tomb: Housing the remains of the famed explorer, the tomb is a symbolic reminder of Spain’s role in the Age of Exploration.
- Magnificent Stained Glass: The cathedral’s windows date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the interior.
Access:
- Entry Points: Tickets can be purchased online or at the cathedral’s entrance. Entry includes access to the Giralda Tower.
- Accessibility: Most of the cathedral is wheelchair-accessible, though the Giralda’s ascent requires navigating ramps.
- Hours:
- Summer: 10:45 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday-Saturday), 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM (Sunday).
- Winter: Slightly extended morning hours.
- Best Time to Visit:
Morning hours (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) are ideal for avoiding crowds. Midweek visits often provide a quieter experience.
Why Go?
The Cathedral of Seville offers unparalleled insights into Spain’s religious fervor, architectural ambition, and cultural dominance. The blending of Gothic, Renaissance, and Islamic elements showcases Seville’s pivotal role in history.
2. The Alcázar of Seville
Overview:
The Real Alcázar of Seville is one of Europe’s oldest royal palaces still in use. Originally a Moorish fort, it was expanded by Christian monarchs into the opulent structure we see today. Its Mudejar architecture, lush gardens, and detailed tilework exemplify Andalusia’s unique cultural synthesis.
Key Features:
- Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens): A serene courtyard framed by intricate arches and reflecting pools, symbolizing Moorish aesthetics.
- Sala de los Embajadores (Hall of Ambassadors): The throne room of Pedro I, with a stunning gilded dome that dazzles visitors.
- Gardens: The palace gardens span several acres, featuring fountains, orange groves, and labyrinthine hedges. They are a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
- Game of Thrones Fame: Portions of the Alcázar were used as the set for Dorne in the popular TV series, drawing fans from around the globe.
Access:
- Tickets: Online booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Hours:
- March-October: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- November-February: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings and late afternoons are best for smaller crowds. Spring, when the gardens are in bloom, is particularly enchanting. - Guided Tours: A guided tour is highly recommended to understand the nuanced history and architectural details.
Why Go?
The Alcázar immerses visitors in a tapestry of Andalusian history, from its Moorish origins to its role as a royal residence. It’s a living monument where centuries of power and artistry converge.
3. Archivo de Indias (Archive of the Indies)
Overview:
The Archivo de Indias is a treasure trove of historical documents that chronicle Spain’s empire in the Americas and the Philippines. Housed in a grand Renaissance building, the archive contains approximately 43,000 volumes and 80 million pages, covering three centuries of global exploration, trade, and governance.
Key Features:
- Documents: The archive holds critical records, including Christopher Columbus’ journal, Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition logs, and plans for major colonial cities.
- Exhibitions: Rotating exhibits display fascinating manuscripts, maps, and artifacts. They bring the story of Spain’s empire to life for modern audiences.
- Architecture: The building itself is a work of art, designed by Juan de Herrera. Its elegant simplicity contrasts with the ornate styles of the Cathedral and Alcázar.
Access:
- Entry: Admission is free, though advanced reservations may be needed for specific events or tours.
- Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays and public holidays.
- Best Time to Visit:
Mornings are ideal for quiet exploration. Check for guided tours or special exhibitions to enrich your visit.
Why Go?
The Archivo de Indias provides a window into the Age of Exploration, offering firsthand accounts of the triumphs and tragedies that shaped the modern world. For history enthusiasts, it’s an unparalleled resource.
MUST SEE ISLA ISABEL NATIONAL PARK MEXICO
MUST SEE: ISLA ISABEL NATIONAL PARK, MEXICO 🇲🇽
Isla Isabel National Park is a Mexican national park and protected area located off the coast of Nayarit southwest of Mazatlan. This isolated island was one Jacques Cousteau’s favorite places and Cousteau himself made the recommendation to the Mexican government to designate this island as a National Park. He spent a great deal of time here and has aired many specials on this fabulous gem. The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau aired in 1975.
Isla Isabel is one of the main nesting islands for seabirds in the Pacific, including large colonies of Magnificent Frigate birds over 11,000 Fregata magnificens , Blue-footed Boobies Sula nebouxii, Brown Boobies Sula leucogaster and Sooty Terns Sterna fuscata. Marine life is rich, with over 24 shark and ray species, three species of sea turtles, the California Sea Lion Zalophus californianus, Humpback Whale Megaptera novaeangliae and Killer Whale Orcinus orca.
The island is uninhabited by humans, though there is a seabird reproductive research program run by UNAM and tourists visit to camp, fish and bird watch. After having depleted a huge colony of Sooty Terns, which in 1978 had over 150,000 pairs, cats were finally eradicated from the island in 1995 and the Terns are slowly recovering. The biodiversity and migratory populations of animals that live and return here year after year is a stunning MUST SEE.
MUST SEE La Lonja de la Seda, Spain
La Lonja de la Seda, Spain
39°28'27.7"N 0°22'41.9"W
The UNESCO Silk Exchange BUILDING in Valencia
Valencia, the “Medina al-Tarab” (City of Sand), is one of the oldest cities in Spain. The city was founded on the banks of the River Turia in 138 BC by the Romans, and began to prosper in the Andulasian period (714 AD-1171 AD). The advent of Islamic culture brought with it a myriad of trading activities related to paper, silk, leather and ceramics and placed Valencia as a commercial hub. After witnessing a brief period of decline, Valencia again revived its importance in the 15th Century, a period which is also referred to as the “Golden Period of Valencia”. They are noteworthy monuments related to the Silk Roads heritage and to the silk industry in the city. La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange) in Valencia, Spain, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic example of Gothic architecture. It's a must-see due to its historical significance, stunning design, and cultural value. Here's why:
La Lonja was built between 1482 and 1548 to serve as the city's silk trading center during the height of Valencia's economic power. Interestingly, this building replaced a previous building which was called the oil exchange and was where the trade of agricultural oil and other business was conducted. The rising prosperity of Valencia in the 15th century led to the building of the Lonja, the current silk exchange. The exchange was a symbol of the city's wealth, where merchants from all over Europe and the Mediterranean came to conduct business. The building showcases stunning Gothic architecture, blending civil and religious influences. The main hall (Sala de Contrataciones or the Contract Hall), with its incredible vaulted ceiling supported by twisted columns, is a masterpiece of design. This is where merchants come to discuss and negotiate contracts. The twisted columns were meant to look like palm trees branching into the sky. The columns themselves were painted brown, the branching up high green, and beyond, blue. While the hall is still stunning today, this painted palm forest was surely a very different look than the bare sandstone of today and must have been very impressive.
The patio and the tower are notable parts of La Lonja as well. The Patio, or inner courtyard, has an open-air design that is stunning, offering an insight into the architectural ingenuity of the period. The tower is fortified with defensive features, symbolic of the importance of the building in the city's trade and security. It is said that traders who were found guilty of fraud were imprisoned in the tower. The ornate detailing in the form of carvings and sculptures is another highlight of the building's grandeur.
In 1996, La Lonja was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional contribution to the architecture of Europe and its importance to Valencia's historical development. It remains one of the best-preserved examples of civil Gothic architecture in Spain. It stands out among this style of architecture as well for it is among the few that was not a church or a cathedral. Inside, visitors can admire a series of frescoes and sculptures, as well as a collection of artworks that showcase the wealth and artistic sophistication of the time. The building also houses exhibitions about its history and the importance of the silk trade in Valencia's rise as a Mediterranean commercial powerhouse.
Silk fiber production process
Loom in the Requena Silk Museum. / Image provided by Ester Alba
The main activity of the Valencian silk industry from the fifteenth to the end of the seventeenth century was the production of silk fiber, a job that was carried out intensively from March to June. “The production of silk fiber was a very intense activity carried out in a very specific season, but it was vital for the survival of peasant families”, explains Professor Ricardo Franch. It started by warming silkworm eggs through different methods, like using body heat or the warmth of the sun, but not before a ritual that involved bringing the silkworm eggs to the church to bless them. The enormous dedication required by this process was due to the fact that the income was obtained in June, coinciding with the payment of different leases. Thus, silk harvesting was essential to obtain the income needed to meet the economic demands of peasant families. When June arrived and the worms had already finished the cocoon, the silk was spun. This work, carried out mainly by women, was hard and left its mark on the hands of the peasants who pulled the thread after soaking it in hot water.
It's easy to visit La Lonja as it is centrally located in Valencia, close to other historic sites, such as the Central Market and Valencia Cathedral. The building is open for tours, and it's often less crowded than other famous sites in Spain, allowing a more relaxed visit. La Lonja de la Seda is a must-see for anyone visiting Valencia due to its stunning architecture, historical significance, and status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It beautifully represents the peak of Valencia's commercial and cultural influence in the Middle Ages, making it a vital part of the city's heritage.
https://oceanposse.com/spain/
MUST SEE: La Fortaleza & San Juan National Historic Site, Puerto Rico
MUST SEE: La Fortaleza &
San Juan National Historic Site, Puerto Rico
La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site are significant landmarks in San Juan, Puerto Rico, showcasing the island's rich history and colonial heritage. La Fortaleza & San Juan National Historic Site serve as a reminder of Puerto Rico’s role as one of the earliest and last bastions of Spanish dominance in the Americas. Visiting this MUST SEE UNESCO site by boat is best from San Juan Bay.
San Juan Bay is a significant harbor and anchorage point on the north side of Puerto Rico,, known for its deep waters and natural protection. It serves as a popular spot for both commercial and recreational vessels. The bay is surrounded by historic sites, such as La Fortaleza, El Morro and San Cristóbal forts, and offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding areas.
La Fortaleza
La Fortaleza, also known as the Governor's Palace, is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Americas. Built between 1533 and 1540 by order of the Spanish king, Charles V, it served as a fortress to protect the city from pirates and corsairs. In 1846, La Fortaleza was remodeled to become the official residence of the governor. The remodeling was designed by the Spanish architect Fernando Trueba, and the building was given a neoclassical style.
La Fortaleza has been the official residence of 170 governors of Puerto Rico and now stands as the oldest executive residence in the Western Hemisphere. It is a historical and cultural landmark of great importance to the island. In 1983, it was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as part of the “La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site”.
San Juan National Historic Site
This historic site encompasses several key components, including the forts of El Morro and San Cristóbal, which were built to defend the city from maritime attacks.
- Fortifications:
- Castillo San Felipe del Morro: A 16th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the ocean and the city. It played a crucial role in the defense of San Juan.
- Castillo San Cristóbal: Built in the 18th century, this fortification was designed to protect against land attacks and is the largest fort built by the Spanish in the Americas.
Both La Fortaleza and the San Juan National Historic Site reflect the historical significance of Puerto Rico in the context of Spanish colonial rule and military strategy in the Caribbean. They are vital for understanding the island's past and its cultural heritage.
MUST SEE: MONASTERY OF THE HIERONYMITES AND TOWER OF BELEM LISBON, PORTUGAL
MUST SEE: 
Monastery of the Hieronymites and Tower of Belém
Lisbon, Portugal
The Monastery of the Hieronymites and the nearby Tower of Belém are UNESCO world heritage sites that represent the story of the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Standing along the Tagus River at the entrance to Lisbon harbor, the Monastery of the Hieronymites and the Tower of Belém . To some the estuary the town of Belem sits on is a perfect metaphor for what the historical landmarks at Belém emphasize – Portuguese influence going out across the ocean and the consequences of all that came back across the sea.
THE MONASTERY OF HIERONYMITES or JERONIMOS
Construction of the Monastery of Hieronymites began in 1501 and culminated 100 years later in 1601. Today the structure exemplifies Portuguese Gothic Manueline style art at its best. The Monastery with built near the launch point of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama's first voyage and its construction was funded by a tax on the profits of the yearly Portuguese Indai Armadas. There was in fact a church in this spot falling into disrepair where it is said that Vasca da Gama and his men stopped to pray before their historic departure to the New World after which he proclaimed the discovery of the sea route to Asia. In 1880, da Gama's remains and those of the poet Luis de Camoes (who celebrated da Gama's first voyage in his 1572 epic poem, The Lusiad), were moved to new carved tombs in the nave of the monastery's church, only a few meters away from the tombs of the kings Manuel I and John III, whom da Gama had served. The monastery was originally a monastery for the Order of Saint Jerome and was built in such proximity to the Tagus river so that sailors could stop in to pray for protection before setting out to sea. It became the necropolis of the Portuguese royal dynasty of Aviz in the 16th century and was abandoned in 1833. In 1983, the Jerónimos Monastery was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby Tower of Belém .
THE TOWER OF Belém
The nearby Tower of Belém was built between 1514-1520 while the Monastery of Jerome was also under construction with the same stones. The Tower was built during the reign of King Manuel I as a fortification defending the entry to Lisbon. Indeed a heavily armed 1,000 ton ship, the Grande Nau, guarded the estuary at the mouth of the Tagus until the fort’s completion. There are 16 or 17 openings for cannons and ditches around it that were used as dungeons. The Tower was not a spartan fortification however; the Tower of Belém was also built elaborately as a symbol and a celebration of Portuguese power and triumph in the New World commemorating Vasco da Gama's famous expedition to Asia in the late 1490's. By the early to mid 1800's the tower’s function changed into a lighthouse and customs house to collect tolls on mariners entering and exiting port. The Tower is a reminder of the great maritime discoveries that laid the foundations of the modern world. The Tower of Belém is considered one of the best examples of the architecture of its time, known as the Manueline style, but it also includes distinctive Moorish features such as ornately decorated turrets. The Tower was adorned with intricate carvings much like the nearby monastery. All the symbols had a bearing on passersby: some stand too welcome visitors, grant safe passage to explorers, others to protect the shores and people of Portugal while threatening and scaring off invaders.
MUST SEE: LA RUTA DEL CAFE in CHIAPAS MEXICO
MUST SEE: LA RUTA DEL CAFE 🇲🇽 CHIAPAS MEXICO
One cold January morning in the late 1800's, Arthur Erich Edelmann, his wife Doris, and seven other colleagues set sail from Hamburg, Germany, all from Perleberg, a small town an hour and a half from Berlin. Erich had a coffee machinery factory in his hometown, owned by his family, which was facing financial problems when they received and invitation from the Mexican government to bring their machinery and their expertise to the fertile region of Chiapas, Mexico. It would be amazing to know what they felt when they read that letter of invitation? That is a story that we do not know and perhaps we never will. What would you have thought to go from the deeply familiar to a place that seemed like a different world. Would you take a risk, abandon your business, your city, your people, your country, your language to start from scratch in a place so far away, so different in culture, language, nature and climate?
Erich traveled for three weeks across the Atlantic until he arrived at the Port of Veracruz, where he took a horse-driven cart with his people to go to Soconusco, Chiapas to the wild and untouched lands that he and his family would soon call home.
Before arriving in Mexico, we suppose that Erich had to have read all the information available about Chiapas, about Mexico and its culture, its people, language, nature, its history. However, there was nothing that could have prepared him for the intensity of his new life.
Erich, Doris and their people arrived in Huixtla, a small village with some houses built in adobe and palm trees, inhabited by friendly indigenous families who gave them the mules and human capital necessary to reach their final destination. From there, it took them another 8 hours to be able to transport along the newly created dirt roads, which looked like tunnels through the dense jungle. On their way they could observe the Tacaná, a volcano whose eruptions transformed the land around it into a fertile paradise.
With the help of workers from San Cristóbal, San Juan Chamula and Guatemala, Erich and his team of architects and engineers began to harmonize the land, build the first houses for the workers, the mill, roads. Erich and Doris lived for 11 years in one of these simple houses, couldn’t afford a bigger house, not yet. The priority was to prepare the land, build all the necessary infrastructure to work, keep people working, provide money and work, houses and food. The priority was its people and the priority was coffee.
They put a lot of work into investing in this long-term project so far from home, a lot of determination and hope, a great risk and a gamble. All that work, all those years, until finally: the first harvest and the start of Finca Hamburgo.
This exemplary coffee Resort Located in the Sierra Madre of Chiapas with More than 130 years of history and culminates as a cultural and extremely worthwhile experience
Argovia is a partner and initiator of the Coffee route in Chiapas, with cabins, outdoor pool, Spa, Yoga area, Restaurant, Bar, Event areas and tours.
Chiapas is the southernmost state in Mexico, and it borders the states of Oaxaca to the west, Veracruz to the northwest, and Tabasco to the north, and borders Guatemala to the east and southeast. Chiapas has a significant coastline on the Pacific Ocean.
The lowland, tall perennial rainforest has been almost completely cleared to allow agriculture and ranching. Rainfall decreases moving towards the Pacific Ocean, but it is still abundant enough to allow the farming of bananas, coffee and many other tropical crops near Tapachula. On the several parallel sierras or mountain ranges running along the center of Chiapas, the climate can be quite moderate and foggy, allowing the development of cloud forests like those of Reserva de la Biosfera El Triunfo, home to a handful of horned guans, resplendent quetzals, and azure-rumped tanagers.
How to get Argovia?
To get to the Finca you have to take 8th Street north (reference: intersection with 17th Street west) located on the border of the city, which will take you north, right at the end will become Road to New Germany. 40 minutes of road without changing your way to find the 39km, you´ll find a signal that says “Argovia 5 minutes” turn your way to the right. You will continue by Finca Eduviges paved road better known as New Germany and only 5 minutes more you’ll be in Argovia. We guarantee that any vehicle from compact to mini sedans can access our Finca with no trouble.
Miguel and Tony lead fabulous, custom tours from Marina Chiapas.
MUST SEE: Tairo Atoll – French Polynesia
MUST SEE:
Tairo Atoll – French Polynesia –
one of THE SEVEN TUAMOTUS IN THIS UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
The Tairo Atoll is part of the UNESCO Tuamotus Biosphere Reserve and was the last of the Tuamotus to be recorded and charted by European explorers. The Biosphere Reserve was established in 1977 and consists of 7 low islands of coral or atoll origin: Aratika, Fakarava, Kauehi, Niau, Raraka, Taiaro, and Toau. These atolls are very different from each other in size, shape, openness to the ocean, population and activities. Its character is unique: there are small closed lagoons such as those of Taiaro and Niau, the former being over-salted while the latter is brackish. And large lagoons open to the ocean such as Fakarava, which has the largest pass in French Polynesia 1,600 metres wide.
The Tairo Atoll is particularly fascinating as it is completely closed off to the ocean. While there may not be any permanent human residents there are many plants, mollusks, and fish. In 2022, a team of adventurous scientists from all over the world led by the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology ventured to Taiaro to investigate this unique atoll. The interior lagoon is warmer and saltier than the surrounding ocean making it an interesting laboratory for interdisciplinary scientists studying a broad range of subjects form endemic species, to evolution, to adaptation, to climate change and more. For an accessible explanation of this mission, check out the description and video in this article:
https://www.oist.jp/news-center/news/2023/3/10/tiny-atoll-pacific-ocean-offers-glimpse-warmer-world
According to UNESCO, "Biosphere reserves are ‘learning places for sustainable development’. They are sites for testing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and managing changes and interactions between social and ecological systems, including conflict prevention and management of biodiversity. They are places that provide local solutions to global challenges. Biosphere reserves include terrestrial, marine and coastal ecosystems. Each site promotes solutions reconciling the conservation of biodiversity with its sustainable use. Tairo is one atoll of 7 in the Biosphere Reserve of the Toamotus. It's inclusion is a testament to the unique and phenomenal ecology of the Atoll. Scientists have found a wide range of species inside an atoll that has only seasonal exchange with the outer ocean and hope that the microcosm of Taiaro may present some insight into adaptations to climate change yet to come.
Atolls are evidence of geologic change and great mystery. Once upon a time volcanic islands erupted out of the ocean. Slowly, coral began to encircle and surround the islands. In the Tuamotus the volcanos sunk, collapsed, and/or eroded away into the ocean leaving a ring of coral surrounding lagoons. The Taiaro atoll is a ring-shaped island built up on an ancient volcano that has sunk into the ocean due to the drift of the Pacific Ocean floor. Taiaro is only visible because of the rim of coral that forms a barrier reef 5 km in diameter around the original volcano. The inside of the atoll has a sandy bottom punctuated with coral heads or 'bommies' that host marine flora and fauna. The landmass of the atoll itself is home to endemic birds mollusks, coconut palms and other plants. The biodiversity is impressive.
Nearby, the Tahanea atoll offers a very different experience from Taiaro in that one can enter the atoll and experience the inside and the outside. Perhaps Tahanea offers a glimpse of what Taiaro may be like.
MUST SEE: CIUDAD PERDIDA (LOST CITY) COLUMBIA 🇨🇴
MUST SEE: CIUDAD PERDIDA
(LOST CITY) COLUMBIA 🇨🇴
Ciudad Perdida consists of a series of 169 terraces carved into the mountainside, a net of tiled roads and several small circular plazas.
Hidden deep in the jungle of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains in northern Colombia sits an archeological site called Ciudad Perdida, the “Lost City”. Built by the Tairona people in 800AD predating Machu Pichu by over 600 years. The Ciudad Perdida archaeological site only became an attraction after it was uncovered in the 1970s.
Los Sepúlveda was a small family of looters in Colombia; their story leads to the beginning of one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in modern times. The family went hunting in the forests of Colombia when they shot down a wild turkey. Upon retrieving the turkey, they noticed it had fallen on a piece of an exposed staircase. This staircase would lead them to find La Ciudad Perdida. For years after its discovery by the looters, “Treasures from the site, including gold figures and ceramics, soon began to appear on the black market” Archeologists were alerted to these black market treasures and managed to, with the help of indigenous people who protect their ancestral site, trace themselves to the area in 1976. The area was researched and reconstructed over the next 6 years.
Although La Ciudad Perdida is one of the most impressive sites, it’s not alone, only about 30-40% of the sites in the Sierra Nevada region have actually been explored. Thanks to recent widespread access, more and more of these sites are being discovered, and the search for new lost cities has just begun.
Ciudad Perdida was probably the region’s political and manufacturing center on the Buritaca River and may have housed 2,000–8,000 people.
Named Teyuna by the Tairona but dubbed Ciudad Perdida upon rediscovery, the ancient wonder is perched on hillsides and tucked into a dense rainforest.
