2 Best Sights in Santa Cruz de Mompox, The Caribbean Coast

Finalized in 1789, the ancient cemetery displays elaborate tombstones and mausoleums of the bold and imperious as well as the lowly of Mompox. Look out for the bust of Candelario Obeso, the forefather of black poetry in the Americas, as well as the tombs of early German and Lebanese immigrants looking to make their fortunes. On Wednesday of Easter week Momposinos make the pilgrimage out to the cemetery to place candles on the tombs of family and friends, making for a moving and illuminated spectacle.

Perhaps the architectural icon of Mompox itself, this imposing baroque structure towers over the Magdalena River and dates back to the 17th century. Molds of palms, flowers, and lions adorn its wedding-cake-like tower.