Casa de Misericordia de Cartagena

Casa de Misericordia de Cartagena is a modernist building with a central entrance on Calle de San Diego that incorporates early 20th-century construction elements. The structure combines classical facade details with functional interior layouts designed for its original purpose and current university use.

The building originated in 1839 within a former convent of San Diego and was redesigned in 1929 by architect Victor Beltri into its current form. This renovation transformed it into a modern welfare facility suited to 20th-century needs.

The building reflects how social care evolved in Cartagena, transitioning from a children's care center to a university administrative base. This transformation shows how public buildings adapt to serve the city's changing needs.

The building now serves as the main administrative office of the Polytechnic University of Cartagena and functions primarily as a working space. Visitors should note that access is available during business hours, and the facility operates as a functional office rather than a tourist attraction.

A renovation in the 1980s fundamentally altered the original patio structure, creating an unusual architectural configuration. The result is a main entrance that sits isolated mid-street, a rare detail that catches the eye of those interested in building design.