The colonial highlights in Colombia start with the capital of Bogota and also with the Caribbean port city of Cartagena. Much of Bogota's historic heart is in the colonial style and some of the most impressive buildings from this time period include the Palacio de San Carlos, the Iglesia del Carmen, Iglesia del Monserrate, and many other buildings in La Candelaria.
Cartagena is a great mix of Spanish and Caribbean in style as the city blossomed as the major port during colonial times. This historic city boasts a massive wall around the city as well as fortresses including Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas (1600-1700s). These fortifications were needed to protect the lands, the trade, and of course the city itself which boasts numerous colonial buildings from the time. The Catedral de Cartagena (or the Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandria, 1612), the Church of Santo Domingo (1549), and the Convent of La Popa (1609-1611) are the religious highlights, but a stroll around town displays the numerous colonial houses, which add much depth to the city as many are brightly painted in a style common in the Caribbean.
Despite the highlights of Bogota and Cartagena, the country is home to numerous colonial structures and nearly every city founded during this time is home to at least one building from this era. The towns of Mompox, Popayan, and Villa de Leyva are all excellent examples of the colonial past.