The world-famous masterpiece by Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez, *Love in the Time of Cholera* 💓, weaves a tale of love that spans over half a century between Florentino and Fermina. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Cartagena, a vibrant city in Colombia’s Caribbean region known for its stunning beaches ⛱️ and historic old town, this story captivates readers with its timeless charm.
1. **Carriage Square (Plaza de los Coches)** 🚗
As you step into the old town through the iconic bell tower, the first square to greet you is Carriage Square. During the colonial era, this was where all carriages entering the city would halt. It’s also here that Florentino encounters Leona Cassiani, one of the most significant women in his life—aside from his mother and Fermina.
2. **Customs Square (Plaza de Aduana)** ⏲️
This square holds a memorable moment for Florentino, where he meets a shepherdess who had escaped from an asylum. Historically, it served as a bustling hub for merchants during the colonial period 💰, brimming with trade and activity.
3. **Andrinal Street** 🏠
Photos 3 and 4 in this post were captured along this charming street! It’s here that Florentino’s home with his mother stood—a place steeped in the novel’s emotional layers.
4. **Cathedral Square** ⛪️
At the heart of the old town, continue your journey from photo 1⃣️ toward the cathedral, and you’ll arrive at the very spot where Florentino first laid eyes on Fermina, sparking their unforgettable love story. Adjacent to Cathedral Square lies the Scribes’ Arcade, a key location brought to life within the pages of the novel!
5. **Heredia Theater (Teatro de Heredia)** 🎤
This theater serves as the stage for the annual poetry competition, where Fermina once presided over the event. It’s also here that Florentino crosses paths with Sara Noriega. In reality, the theater stands majestically at the edge of the old town, overlooking the sea.
**Accommodation** 🏨: For a comfortable stay, consider Estelar Cartagena Convenciones (as seen in photos 7 and 8), located in the modern Bocagrande hotel district. This newly built hotel offers contemporary amenities. Staying in the old town, while picturesque, can be crowded and lacks updated facilities.
*Love in the Time of Cholera* draws inspiration from the real-life romance of García Márquez’s parents. Through this work, the author explores the enduring theme of living—and even dying—for love, a motif that resonates throughout his literary legacy.
