Think Roman legions marching through streets, Carthaginian camps in parks, and everyone dressing up. It's loud, colourful, and completely unique to this region.
What This Festival Is Really About
Forget dry history lessons. Carthagineses y Romanos (pronounced car-ta-hee-NEH-ses ee ro-MAH-nos) is Cartagena's way of celebrating its ancient past with maximum energy.
The city was founded by the Carthaginians around 227 BC, then conquered by the Romans in 209 BC. This festival reenacts that history, but with parades, battles, feasts, and parties that make it feel alive.
Locals don't just watch - they participate. Over 5,000 people join the troops (called 'tropas'), wear period costumes, and camp in the city parks. The whole city transforms.
What Actually Happens During the Festival
Here's what you'll see and do if you come in September 2026:
The Grand Parades
FreeThe Carthaginian and Roman troops march through the city with torches, music, and elaborate costumes. The Saturday night parade is the biggest - get there early for a good spot along Calle Mayor.
Historical Camps
FreeThe troops set up camps in parks like Parque Torres and the Arsenal. You can walk through, see how they lived, and sometimes try ancient crafts or taste period-appropriate food.
The Naval Battle
FreeThey recreate a sea battle in the port with replica ships. It's dramatic, with fire effects and actors falling into the water (don't worry, they're fine). Best viewed from the waterfront.
The Siege of Qart Hadast
FreeThis is the climax - the reenactment of the Roman conquest of the city. It happens at the Roman Theatre (which is real, not a replica). Expect fireworks, battle cries, and dramatic speeches.
Practical stuff:
- Dates: Usually mid-September, exact 2026 dates announced early that year
- Location: Centered in Cartagena's historic centre and port area
- Cost: Most events are free. Some seated areas at the Roman Theatre might charge
- Website: Check fiestascartaginesesyromanos.es for the 2026 programme
Local Tips for Enjoying the Festival
Cartagena hotels fill up months in advance for this. Consider staying in Murcia city (45 minutes by train) if you're flexible.
Skip the generic food stalls. Go to bars in the old town for marineras (local potato salad with tuna and mayo on bread) and caldero (fish rice stew). Try it at places like Bodega La Fuente.
The parades and main events get packed. If you dislike crowds, visit the camps during daytime instead. Also, the battle reenactments use loud fireworks and shouts.