Monumento a Los Zapatos Viejos
A whimsical bronze sculpture of oversized boots, honoring poet Luis Carlos Lopez. A unique photo op near San Felipe Fortress.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Monumento a Los Zapatos Viejos
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical bronze sculpture of oversized boots, honoring poet Luis Carlos Lopez. A unique photo op near San Felipe Fortress.
"Beat the heat and crowds for a quirky photo op at the iconic Old Boots monument!"
☀️ Go at Sunrise
Beat the oppressive heat and long photo lines by visiting at sunrise. It's the ideal time for a clear shot!
📸 Prepare for Photo Lines
Expect a queue to get inside the boots for photos. If you don't want to wait, capture the vendors and atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Bronze Boots
In front of the sculpture
A unique bronze sculpture of oversized old boots, a tribute to poet Luis Carlos Lopez. Perfect for a quirky photo.
Street Vendors & Local Crafts
Around the monument
Browse colorful souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts from vendors surrounding the monument. Compare prices before buying.
Views Near San Felipe Fortress
Adjacent to San Felipe de Barajas Fortress
Enjoy picturesque views and a charming passage, conveniently located near the historic fortress.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Photo Op Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Go at Sunrise
Beat the oppressive heat and long photo lines by visiting at sunrise. It's the ideal time for a clear shot!
📸 Prepare for Photo Lines
Expect a queue to get inside the boots for photos. If you don't want to wait, capture the vendors and atmosphere.
🛍️ Shop Smart
Vendors offer souvenirs and clothing. Compare prices before purchasing to get the best deal.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The sun can be intense. Carry water and wear sun protection, especially if walking from afar.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Go at Sunrise
Beat the oppressive heat and long photo lines by visiting at sunrise. It's the ideal time for a clear shot!
📸 Prepare for Photo Lines
Expect a queue to get inside the boots for photos. If you don't want to wait, capture the vendors and atmosphere.
🛍️ Shop Smart
Vendors offer souvenirs and clothing. Compare prices before purchasing to get the best deal.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The sun can be intense. Carry water and wear sun protection, especially if walking from afar.
🚌 Consider Excursions
Many party bus excursions stop here. It can be a convenient, albeit brief, visit if you're on a tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Monumento a Los Zapatos Viejos a quirky photo opportunity, especially for its unique bronze boot sculpture. However, many note the intense heat and long lines for pictures, suggesting early morning visits are best. It's often seen as a quick stop, with some feeling it's not worth a dedicated trip if not already near the San Felipe Fortress.
"The sun was strong at 9:30 am and the long line to stand inside the boot was not for me. I took a few photos of the street vedors and people in the boot. Sunrise is probably the ideal time to be there.
Vhuntermassage LLC"
Veronica Hunter
"Not worth the walk in the oppressive heat unless you're already at the fort. Line of people waiting to take their picture so you can't even just get a single shot of it unless you want to stand in line. It's exactly what it sounds like, a sculpture of boots. And now I've saved you the effort."
Ashleigh Verdier
"Discover a hidden gem behind the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress. This picturesque spot offers stunning views and a charming passage filled with souvenirs and clothing. Be sure to compare prices before making a purchase.
🤝"
Kenneth Velandia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monument is located near the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress. You can reach it by taxi, bus, or as part of an organized tour. Walking can be challenging due to the heat.
It's a moderate distance from the historic center, and the walk can be quite hot. Taxis or tour buses are recommended to avoid the heat.
While possible, walking is not recommended during peak hours due to the oppressive heat. Visitors often find the walk uncomfortable.
Local buses may go near the area, but it's often easier and more direct to take a taxi or join a tour that includes this stop.
Parking can be limited and challenging, especially during busy times. It's generally easier to arrive via taxi or tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the monument area itself is generally free. However, there might be a small fee for using the restroom facilities.
The monument is an outdoor sculpture and is accessible at all times. However, visiting hours are best dictated by daylight and heat.
No, there is no specific entrance fee to see the Monumento a Los Zapatos Viejos. It's an open public space.
Yes, visitors can step inside the large bronze boots for photos, but there is often a line to do so.
No booking is required for individual visitors. It's a spontaneous stop for most travelers.
📸 📸 Photography
Visit at sunrise for fewer crowds and softer light. Be patient if there's a line to get inside the sculpture for your shot.
Yes, you can photograph the vendors and their wares, but it's polite to ask permission first, especially if focusing on an individual.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use in the public area.
Playful shots inside the boots, capturing the vibrant street vendors, and wider shots with the fortress in the background are popular.
Drone usage might be restricted due to proximity to the fortress and general regulations. Check local rules before flying.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are street vendors selling snacks and souvenirs, dedicated restaurants are more likely to be found closer to the San Felipe Fortress or back in the city center.
Vendors typically offer local snacks, drinks, and sometimes small prepared items. It's good for a quick bite.
Yes, bottled water is usually available from the street vendors, which is essential given the heat.
No, it's more of a quick stop with snack vendors. For a full meal, you'll need to head to other areas.
Cafes are not a prominent feature directly at the monument. Your best bet is to look near the fortress or in more developed tourist areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are often street vendors nearby selling snacks and drinks, which can be a good way to keep little ones happy. The proximity to the San Felipe de Barajas Fortress also means you can combine this with a visit to a more substantial attraction that might hold a child's attention longer. Keep the visit brief and focused on the photo opportunity to maximize enjoyment and minimize heat exposure.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are vendors selling souvenirs, you can easily enjoy the sight and take photos without purchasing anything. If you do want a souvenir, remember the advice to compare prices among vendors to get the best deal. Bringing your own water is also a good way to save money, as bottled water from vendors can be pricier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Boots
This monument is more than just a photo opportunity; it's a cultural touchstone. Visitors often find themselves reflecting on the poet's legacy as they pose with the iconic boots. The surrounding area also contributes to the experience, with local vendors adding a vibrant layer of commerce and color to the site. It’s a place where art, history, and local life converge, offering a unique glimpse into Cartagena's soul.
While the monument itself is the main draw, its proximity to the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Fortress makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the area. Many visitors combine their visit to the boots with a tour of the fortress, creating a well-rounded historical and cultural excursion. The combination offers a diverse experience, from historical fortifications to artistic tributes.
Navigating the Heat and Crowds
Beyond the heat, the monument is a popular spot for photos, leading to lines to get inside the sculpture. If you're not keen on waiting, consider capturing the lively atmosphere of the surrounding street vendors and the general ambiance. Many find that the experience is enhanced by observing the local interactions and the colorful stalls. This perspective can be just as rewarding as the iconic boot photo.
For those arriving by tour, such as a party bus excursion, the stop is often brief but convenient. However, if you're exploring independently, planning your visit around the cooler parts of the day is key to enjoying this unique landmark without discomfort. Remember to stay hydrated and wear appropriate sun protection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit