Discovering Cartagena

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The Llagostera House can be found in the Calle Mayor, opposite the San Domingo Church.  The busy Gran Bar on the street-level is usually crowded with customers enjoying a drink and a snack and discussing the events of the day. 

A huge “GB” mosaic covers much of the floor and this is a very good place to take a break with the locals.  However, the true glory of the building, which was built in 1916, is outside.  The façade is covered in tiled images which colourfully reflect the taste and history of the Llagostera family that commissioned this grand family home. 

The architect for the building was the Cartagena favourite, Victor Beltri, and the tiles were produced by Gaspar Polo.  Mercury and Minerva, gods important in commerce, feature as well as coats of arms of places connected with the family.  One place even has a “red hand” on its shield which is more familiarly an emblem of Ulster. 

Today the façade could probably do with a good clean and a bit of a touch up but it is very pleasing to see such an authentic part of old Cartagena still very much in business. 

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