Early morning on the balcony-lined streets of Cartagena's Old City. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

Horse-drawn carriages offer rides to tourists. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

The dome of the church of San Pedro Claver, who ministered to Cartagena's slaves. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

At midday, office workers fill the streets on their way to restaurants or home for lunch. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

Traditional knockers adorn the heavy wooden doors on homes and shops. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

Cumbia dancers perform in the Old City's plaza for donations. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

Vendors sell sugary conconctions on the Portal de los Dulces.

A glimpse down a narrow street reveals the dome of a church. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

Lobby of Casa Lola. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

Lunch at Hotel San Pedro de Majagua in the Rosario Islands. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

One of the Old City's many restored homes. JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

Plaza de los Coches JANE WOOLDRIDGE / MIAMI HERALD STAFF