- Address: Avenida Central, Panama City, Panama City
- Founded: in the XVII century
In the capital of Panama there is a famous ancient district, whose age is almost 340 years, and it is called Casco Antiguo (Casco Antiguo).
Basic facts
Each building here has its incredible legend or a touching story. Most of the buildings were built in the XIX century, and some of them were preserved from colonial times. The first settlements in this region appeared in 1673.
The area is a long peninsula that protrudes into the sea and is located in the south-west of the city. San Felipe is one of the most interesting and picturesque places in the city of Panama. Here colonial splendor intertwines with modern life. Today, Casco Antigua is a residential part of the village. For this reason, along with historical buildings, new buildings can be seen here. In general, this is a very prestigious area, and property prices here are quite high.
In this part of the city, repairs are often carried out: old buildings are being restored and new ones are being built.
What is Casco Antigua famous for?
In 2003, the area was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main sights here are:
- The Temple of San Francisco de Asis (Iglesia San Francisco de Asís) is one of the richest cathedrals in Panama City. The church suffered two violent fires and in 1998 it was finally completely restored.
- Plaza Bolivar (Plaza Bolivar) was built in the XVII century in honor of the national hero Simon Bolivar.
- The National Theater (Teatro Nacional) - was built in 1908.
- Piazza de Armas is the main square of the old city, the main attraction of which is the Catholic Cathedral. The church is decorated with a bell tower with angels on a spire and a statue of Jesus Christ, revealing hugs to passers-by.
- Independence Square (Plaza Catedral or Plaza de la Independencia). It is famous for the fact that it has twice proclaimed the independence of the country. The first time in 1821 - from Spain, and the second - in 1903 from Colombia. The design of the square was worked not only by Spanish, but also by French architects.
- Plaza de Francia (Plaza de Francia) - is dedicated to the dead Frenchmen (22 thousand people) who tried to build a canal. In the center is the symbol of France - an obelisk in the form of a rooster.
- Museum of the Panama Canal - here you can get acquainted not only with the history of the channel , but also see the various stages of its construction.
- A modern government building , where the city hall is located.
- Street Paseo de las Bovedas , which stretches along a massive stone wall, etc.
- Herrera Square (Plaza Herrera) - dedicated to General Thomas Herrer, who led the battle for independence. Prior to that, they were tripling the bullfight - the bullfight.
- Plaza Plaza Carlos V - there is a monument dedicated to the very first mayor of the capital.
What else is in the area of Casco Antigua?
In this part of the city, well-to-do Panamans like to spend their evenings. On weekends, they go here with their whole family to relax in various restaurants, listen to jazz or live music, to which local dancers perform incendiary salsa, as well as enjoy the picturesque views of the Pacific and admire the ancient architecture. Nightlife in Casco Antigua is quite cheerful and varied.
In this part of the city there is a huge number of souvenir shops. Here you can buy various cards and magnets, braided bracelets and straw hats, hammocks and national costumes, local fruits and drinks. If you are tired and want to relax, then keep in mind that in San Felipe there are several hotels, for example, the popular hotel Colombia.
How to get to the area of Casco Antigua?
Around Kasko-Antigua is a circular road, from where, incidentally, a chic view of the old city opens. On this route, car parks are prohibited, so you can either slowly drive by car, or go out on the next street and walk. To come here is most convenient from Amador Causeway .
Going to the capital of Panama , be sure to visit the area of Casco Antigua, because here you will not only get acquainted with the medieval history of the city, but also be able to immerse yourself in the local flavor.
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