Palace of the Inquisition

The Palace of the Inquisition in Cartagena offers a stark look at Colombia's colonial past, blending history, architecture, and the story of the Spanish Inquisition. This grand baroque building in the heart of the historic center once housed the tribunal of the Holy Office. Its imposing facade, with carved stone, wooden balconies, and a monumental entrance, prepares visitors for the somber history preserved inside.

Inside, visitors walk through rooms where trials were held for those accused of heresy, witchcraft, and other offenses against the Church. The museum displays original documents, religious objects, and authentic instruments of torture that reveal the harsh methods of the Inquisition. Alongside this dark legacy, the palace highlights Cartagena's cultural richness through colonial art and architecture, inviting reflection on justice, power, and faith amid the city's vibrant colonial setting.