As Cartagena’s old walled city is filling up, the once infamous neighbourhood Getsemaní has come into its own in recent years, adding a new and fresh element to the city. Some fifteen years ago probably no one would have believed that this area would emerge as a fancy place for dining and nightlife and would potentially become one of Latin America’s hotspots. The area was an old working class colonial neighbourhood, with crumbling houses, filled with trash, and an environment of crime, drugs and prostitution.
Though Getsemani may not have the splendour of the walled city, it does offer a more authentic experience, one worth exploring. Meander through its narrow streets and gaze at the many murals around. You will find food vendors selling homemade empanadas and arepas everywhere in the streets. Residents hang out in front of their houses, playing games or chatting with neighbours.
Want to have a nice evening? Take an aperitivo at Di Silvio Trattoria, eat a slice at Getsemani pizza’s, indulge yourself with the chaos of the Plaza de Santisima Trinidad, drink a cocktail at Confussion and dance salsa at Club Havana on the corner. Let’s hope the area will keep its soul for a long, long while.
