Playa de las Tenazas

Gazing at Playa de las Tenazas, one can almost hear the whispers of history carried on the sea breeze. Playa de las Tenazas, also known as La Tenaza, is more than just a beautiful beach in Cartagena. It’s a scar of time, a testament to the city’s tumultuous past and enduring spirit. Playa de las Tenazas sits in the shadow of the Baluarte de Santa Catalina. It owes its existence to the construction of the escollera de la Marina between 1765 and 1771. This breakwater, designed by Antonio de Arévalo, unintentionally created the beach. Arévalo later designed La Tenaza itself in 1779 to protect this newfound stretch of sand. Its name, meaning “The Claw,” hints at its purpose. It was intended to “claw” or impede any enemies attempting to approach the city via the Avenida de la Cruz Grande. Picture the scene: Spanish soldiers patrolling the ramparts, their eyes scanning the horizon, the cannons of La Tenaza poised and ready. The claw-like structure, with its sloping walls and embrasures, stands guard against potential invaders. Originally, a moat and a drawbridge further enhanced its defenses, connecting it to the bastion through a vaulted passage. While the drawbridge is now gone, the remaining structure speaks volumes about the city’s commitment to its protection. Today, the gentle waves lap against the shore of Playa de las Tenazas, a stark contrast to the turbulent history it embodies. The beach offers a peaceful retreat, where visitors can relax and soak up the sun. Yet, with a little imagination, you can almost hear the clash of steel, the roar of cannons, and the cries of battle echoing across the centuries. Playa de las Tenazas stands as a silent sentinel, a reminder of the struggles and triumphs that shaped Cartagena into the vibrant city it is today.