Can you imagine a waterway that was built by hand? Here, before you, is the Canal del Dique, a testament to the dedication and engineering ingenuity of the Spanish colonial era. The Canal del Dique, stretching over 118 kilometers, connects Cartagena’s bay to the Magdalena River way up north. It was built in the mid-17th century to create a direct link between Cartagena, the most important port in the New Kingdom of Granada, and the heart of the country, the Magdalena River. Before the Canal, transport of goods was difficult and dangerous. This waterway, though, transformed the region’s economy and drastically reduced travel times. But the story of the Canal is not just about trade and logistics. The Canal del Dique has also been a source of environmental challenges, with sedimentation from the Magdalena River constantly threatening its stability. Over the years, the Canal underwent numerous, often expensive, repair and dredging efforts. The Canal is now a vital channel for commerce, connecting Cartagena to the Magdalena River, and supporting various industries along its banks. It is a testament to the past, a reminder of the region’s history and a key to its future.
Facultad de Química Farmacéutica
What if I told you that the building before us, the Facultad de Química Farmacéutica of the University of Cartagena,