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In a move to preserve an important piece of Cartagena's cultural heritage, the city council has announced plans to completely restore the San Leandro coastal battery, located near the La Curra pier. The battery, which has been recognised as an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC), will undergo a transformation into an interpretation centre that showcases the history of Cartagena's defensive system.

 

The project to recover the 18th century property, which is expected to cost 4 million euros, is being funded by the European aid received by the city council for improving infrastructure through the Tourism Sustainability Plan. The contract for the works was awarded to Salmer-CSL UTE, and the preliminary project, designed by architect José Manuel Chacón, has been valued at more than 1 million euros.

 

The restoration process will carefully preserve the external integrity of the battery, while also addressing internal structural issues. The building and its surrounds have suffered from natural weathering over time, as well as instances of vandalism and looting.

 

The rehabilitation project has been allocated 540,000 euros for the building, 360,000 euros for the surrounding landscape and 150,000 euros for the development of digital content that will be featured in the future interpretation centre.

 

According to Mayor Noelia Arroyo, the initiative will not only preserve an important part of Cartagena's history but also enhance the city's tourist attractions. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the city's rich military past in a revamped and easily accessible setting.

 

The project is also set to include the creation of a cycle path in collaboration with the Port Authority, further enhancing the area's appeal to visitors and locals alike.

 

 

Image: Ayuntamiento de Cartagena