Today Panama’s Casco Viejo is of the most interesting places in the country for tourists to visit. Located in the province of Panama, just a few minutes from downtown Panama City, the Old Town is a fusion of brushstrokes of French and Spanish architecture, reminding many visitors of the old colonial city of New Orleans. The French influences stem from when the French came to the Isthmus of Panama to attempt to build the Panama Canal in 1881. Today, the French architecture blends with a distinctive Caribbean vibe and creates Casco Viejo – one of Panama’s most unique and special destinations.
Buildings in Cathedral Plaza Casco Viejo
After the first Panama City (now known as Panama Viejo) was pillaged and burnt by the infamous pirate Henry Morgan, Panama’s second capital city was constructed in 1673 in the area that is now known as the Casco Viejo. The unique geography of this place would make it easier to defend the city in the event of more attacks. Today, you can still see the defensive structures, vaults, guns and other elements that were put in place to protect the new city.
Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Casco Viejo is an historical site that can not be compared with another in Panama. Neighboring buildings might have been constructed 300 years apart, creating a mish-mash of architectural styles. Beyond the difference in styles is the difference in the people: In Casco, you will find people from all backgrounds and walks of life, from Panamanian opera stars to young, budding surf stars and everything in between. The disparity among the people here is astounding, and while many people in this neighborhood are from unfortunate backgrounds, there is a unique sense of community and bonding. Casco Viejo is like a microcosm of the entire country – a true melting pot of different races and cultures.
View of Downtown Panama City from Casco Viejo
Over the years, Casco Viejo has been growing in popularity as a tourist destination. The Old Town is home to some of the most interesting landmarks and monuments in the country, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Canal Museum, the San Jose Church (known affectionately as the Church with the Golden Altar), the National Theatre, Las Bovedas, or the vaults of Casco Viejo, La Plaza de Francia (the French Square) and El Arco Chato (the Flat Arch), among other fascinating places. While during the day, Casco is an outdoor museum housing many of the country’s secrets, by night Casco Viejo is a very important place for restaurants, bars and clubs. Here you will find some of the most varied and unique nightspots in the country.
Metropolitan Cathedral Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo has also developed a global reputation as an expat relocation spot. The proven investment opportunities in the old buildings have enticed people from all over the world to come, renovate architectural jewels and in many cases, start small businesses. At any given moment, a stroll through Casco Viejo will bring you into contact with peope from as far away as Italy, Germany and the UK, as well as many North American expats.
