Date Published: 29/09/2025

Public breathalyzers installed for the first time at Cartagena’s Carthaginian and Roman camp

New machines help festival-goers check their alcohol level for just a euro

If you’re enjoying Cartagena’s famous Carthaginians and Romans Festival, now you can blow into a public breathalyzer before heading home, without the worry of a police checkpoint. For the first time, three new breathalyzer machines have been installed near the Festero Campground, next to the Benipila promenade, close to the bridge joining Cartagonova with Luis Calandre Street.

These machines, from the company AlcoholteSA, work like parking meters: users simply pay one euro to test their blood alcohol level. Pedro Lucas Sánchez, AlcoholteSA's regional representative, says the devices have been presented at trade fairs in Córdoba and Málaga and come with a worldwide patent.

The goal is simple: to improve road safety by helping people know if they’re fit to drive after a night out. While the devices give clear results, it remains the user’s choice whether to get behind the wheel, but at least now they can make an informed decision.

The breathalyzers’ arrival complements the festive atmosphere of the Carthaginians and Romans Festival, one of the Region of Murcia’s biggest events, which transforms Cartagena each September with reenactments, parades, and cultural displays that bring its ancient past vividly to life. This historic festival celebrates the city’s origins back to 227 BC, with spectacular scenes of Carthaginian and Roman armies and grand parades through Cartagena’s streets.

For many attendees, this innovative small addition offers convenience and a valuable safety check as they enjoy the vibrant celebrations.

Image: Rodolfo Gaion/Pexels

Linea Directa Bottom Article A-L CAR INSURANCE

Sign up for the Spanish News Today Editors Roundup Weekly Bulletin and get an email with all the week’s news straight to your inbox

Special offer: Subscribe now for 25% off (36.95 euros for 48 Bulletins)