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Historic Submarine Anchors New Cartagena Museum CARTAGENA has officially received the submarine Tonina S-62, one of the most iconic vessels in the history of the Spanish Navy, which will soon become the main attraction of a new museum in the tunnels of El Espalmador. The handover ceremony took place recently, when Admiral Alejandro Cuerda formally transferred the submarine to Mayor Noelia Arroyo, in the presence of Regional President Fernando López Miras. The Tonina, a Daphné-class submarine built in 1973, served the Spanish Navy for 32 years, during which it travelled more than 200,000 miles, the equivalent of nine trips around the world, and spent over 31,000 hours beneath the sea. It is regarded as one of the most significant examples of Spain’s naval engineering, having played a key role in both training missions and international operations. A museum in the heart of Cartagena’s naval history The new museum will be located within the Monte de Galeras tunnels, a historic military site overlooking Cartagena’s port. These underground spaces will be transformed into a state-of-the-art exhibition centre dedicated to the sea, technology, and naval history, highlighting the close relationship between the city and the Spanish Navy. According to Mayor Arroyo, the project “will use a unique site in Spain to create a space unlike any in Europe,” offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore the inside of a real submarine while learning about the evolution of the Submarine Arm and the lives of those who served aboard. Preserving a deep maritime heritage The city of Cartagena has long been considered the cradle of Spanish submarine history, with its shipyards and naval facilities dating back centuries. It was here that Isaac Peral, the pioneer of the electric submarine, was born, and where generations of submariners have trained. The inclusion of the Tonina in this new museum continues that legacy, ensuring that both residents and visitors can appreciate the region’s profound maritime identity. Admiral Cuerda, the last commander of the Tonina, remarked that “few cities are as connected to the Navy as Cartagena,” adding that this new chapter ensures the vessel “will continue to serve the city and its people, preserving the proud history of Spanish submariners.” Boost for tourism and local businesses The museum is expected to become one of Cartagena’s major tourist attractions, drawing visitors from across Spain and Europe. Officials hope it will complement the city’s other historical sites, such as the Roman Theatre, the Naval Museum, and the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology (ARQVA), strengthening Cartagena’s reputation as a cultural and educational destination. Beyond preserving history, the project also promises to bring economic benefits, boosting local tourism and supporting nearby businesses. With the Tonina now safely anchored on land, Cartagena is ready to open a new chapter, one that celebrates innovation, bravery, and the bond between the city of Cartagena and the sea.
