Casco Viejo, Panama: History Preserved and Revitalized!
If you’re looking for an interesting destination in Panama City, then visiting the historical district of Casco Viejo is what you’re looking for. Eclectic, energetic and probably one of the fastest and greatest urban revitalizations in the Americas, this UNESCO World Heritage site reflects the diversity of Panama’s history and of Panamanian society. Standing as Panama’s second most popular touristic destination (next to the Panama Canal), it is a MUST on your Panama “To Do” list!
A Little on Casco Viejo’s History: Born from the Ashes
What’s interesting about Casco Viejo is that it was built after the original Panama City was burn to the ground as a result of the attack and looting of pirate Henry Morgan to the city. In 1673 the city was rebuilt and actually relocated a few miles away from the original settlement bringing along pieces of the original city, like the facade of La Piedad Church. This is a great example of the old and new combining for a unique glimpse into history where you can see the period difference of the facade and the rest of the building.. Casco Viejo preserves some of the first buildings and institutions of Panama City; walking through its streets is walking through Panama’s fascinating past.
Casco Viejo: UNESCO World Heritage
The historic district of Casco Viejo was named World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, really putting this destination on the map! Before the UNESCO designation Casco Viejo was pretty much unknown to the outside world, yet shortly after investment of both local Panamanian and foreign investors came pouring into the historical district turning Casco Viejo into one of the fastest and greatest urban renovation projects in the continent.
Casco Viejo is a melting pot of cultural influences portrayed in its architecture. Although originally a Spanish settlement, the city’s importance as a center of trade brought many foreign influences, so you will find 16th and 17th century Spanish architecture along Caribbean, French and even Art Deco styles.
If you visit Panama City, strolling down Casco Viejo’s old streets and buildings is a delight! Here are some of Casco Viejo’s highlights, which you cannot miss!!
| The Metropolitan Cathedral | Palacio and Salon Bolivar |
| La Merced Church | Compañia de Jesus Church |
| San Felipe Neri Church | San Francisco de Asis Church |
| Museum of Colonial Religious Art | Plaza Herrera (Herrera Square) |
| Santo Domingo and Arco Chato Church | Plaza Bolivar (Bolivar Square) |
| San Jose Church | Plaza Francia (Francia Square) |
| National Theatre | Plaza de la Indepencia |
| Las Bovedas Monument | Many more Museums and Galleries |
| Palacio de las Garzas |
Casco Viejo Today: A Total Hot Spot!
Today Casco Viejo is a sharp contrast between the old and the new, a vibrant neighborhood where small cafes, boutique hotels and shops have made their appearance. In fact you will find some of the best restaurants in the city in this old quarter and it is also becoming the trendiest destination for nightlife! Casco Viejo can also be considered Panama City´s artistic center with recurrent art events and shows such as the Panama Jazz Festival, the Music Festival and Sobresaltos Dance Festival among others.
Casco Viejo is the most tourist friendly destination to wander around in Panama City and it is now joined by the Cinta Costera or Coastal Beltway which was basically designed to ease some of the traffic congestion in the city but also provides locals and visitors about 25 hectares of park area in the city. Unlike other cities in Latin America, Casco Viejo’s streets are not crowded with tourists or local vendors; you can stroll down the old streets visiting one square to the next while enjoying the beautifully landscaped gardens, the stunning and contrasting architecture and, of course, some of the delights of food vendors! Cultural and sightseeing tours of this Panama City Old Quarter can be found from “express” 2-hour promenades to a more complete visit to Panama’s past in combination with a visit to Panama La Vieja and even to the Panama Canal!
Find out more on these guided tours by contacting our Activities Specialists. They will be more than happy to assist you finding the right Casco Viejo tour for you.
