a Customs Square, the largest in Cartagena’s Historic Center. In colonial times it was the center of trade, ships loaded with goods arrived here and everything in and out of the port was controlled from these cellars. One of the most important products was tobacco, which was exported to Europe and became a real wealth for the Spanish Crown. This place was, in a nutshell, the economic heart of the city.”

Car Square, right at the main entrance of the walled city. Here the slave market worked for a long time, but it was also a trading point. Local products were sold in the portals we see around, and tobacco was also circulating, which gradually ceased to be just an indigenous ritual and became a much appreciated social habit.”

Proclamation Square, formerly known as Cathedral Square. Official celebrations were held here and it was a meeting point of the Creole elite. It was common at the time to see gentlemen smoking tobacco and accompanying talks with a cup of coffee, customs that soon became symbols of prestige and social life.”

We will make a stop at JHAZ Café Shop, one of Cartagena's most renowned cafes. Here we will enjoy a special Colombian coffee cup. They will explain how coffee is grown, selected and prepared from the source, and understand why this drink is a national pride and part of our cultural identity. It’s the ideal time to taste Colombia in a cup!”

Tobacco Street. Its name is no accident: in this area much of the tobacco leaving Cartagena for the Caribbean and Europe was stored and traded. This product played a key role in the colonial economy and its legacy still lives on in our culture.

Plaza Santo Domingo, one of the liveliest places in Cartagena. In colonial times it was already a meeting point for merchants, travelers and locals. Tobacco was smoked here in long chats and, over time, coffee was also enjoyed in a bohemian atmosphere full of life. Today the tradition continues, although now with restaurants, bars and a very festive atmosphere.”

To finish the experience, we will enter a store specializing in artisan tobacco. Here you’ll have the opportunity to sample premium cigars, learn more about the Caribbean’s tobacco history, and discover how they’re paired with coffee or even rum. It is the best way to close this tour: experiencing the flavors and aromas that have marked the history of Cartagena.”