The Proclamation Square It is located in the historic center of Cartagena, adjacent to the Cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria and with him Proclamation Palace.
History of Proclamation Square
The first name by which he was known was cathedral square and it was conferred upon the completion of the work on the cathedral of Cartagena around the first decade of the 17th century, then when the town hall was installed in the building today known as the Palace of the Proclamation, it was given the name town hall square, after this it takes the name of palace square.
(Also learn about the history of Plaza de la Trinidad, a key place in the independence of Cartagena)
Given the acts of support that were held in said square by the people towards the signatories of the independence act on November 11, 1811, it took its current name. proclamation square, thus becoming one of the most important stages of the city's independence process.
About the sculpture of John Paul II in Proclamation Square
In one of its corners you can see the sculpture in homage to Pope John Paul II, the sculpture was made by the artist Julio Alberto Páez (father), and it is a reminder of his great cry for peace in Colombia and of his visit to Cartagena de Indias more than 27 years ago which arrived with a message of peace for Colombia when it was in a great social crisis, it is made of bronze and It has a height of 2.50 meters.
Where is Proclamation Square located?
The plaza is located on 34th Street and Cra. 5 of the walled center of Heroica, right between the Cathedral of Cartagena and the Palace of Proclamation.
It is currently considered the largest square in Cartagena, and today it hosts concerts and large events; It is undoubtedly one of the places that should not be missed on your visit to La Heroica, not only because it is the center of much of the daytime and nighttime activity of the corralito de piedra, but also because it is one of the most relevant historical places in Cartagena and Colombia.
About the sculptor Julio Alberto Páez (papeto)
Julio Alberto Páez Ferro was a Colombian painter and sculptor, born in Chiquinquirá, Boyacá; He studied at the Faculty of Architecture and Fine Arts of the University of the Andes, at the National School of Fine Arts of the National University and in the workshops of teachers Armando Villegas, Antonio Roda and David Manzur.
These sculptures are completely unknown to me… I have visited some parts of Cartagena, but I have never seen these beautiful sculptures that you share with us, thank you.