Casco Viejo

The Soulful Heart of Panama City

Where the glittering skyscrapers of a modern metropolis meet the sea, a historic peninsula tells a story centuries in the making. This is Casco Viejo, the old quarter of Panama City. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this vibrant neighborhood is a maze of cobblestone streets, charming plazas, and colonial grandeur. If you plan to travel to Panama, a journey into the soulful, romantic streets of Casco Viejo is an absolute must.

What is Casco Viejo?

Founded in 1673 after the infamous pirate Henry Morgan sacked the original city, Casco Viejo (also known as Casco Antiguo) was built as a walled fortress on a defensible peninsula. Today, every street corner whispers tales of its past. The architecture is a captivating blend of Spanish, French, and Caribbean influences, seen in the pastel-hued buildings adorned with intricate wrought-iron balconies and shaded by red-tiled roofs. As you wander, you'll feel the palpable energy of a place that has been the crossroads of cultures for generations.

From Ruins to Renaissance: The Rebirth of a Neighborhood

For decades, Casco Viejo fell into disrepair, but a stunning revitalization has transformed it into one of the most dynamic and exciting districts in Latin America. The neighborhood’s unique charm lies in its beautiful contrasts: exquisitely restored boutique hotels and chic restaurants stand proudly next to crumbling, vine-covered ruins. This living history creates a photogenic and authentic atmosphere, making it a highlight for anyone who decides to travel in Panama.

What to Do in Panama's Historic Heart

Casco Viejo is a compact neighborhood best explored on foot, with new discoveries waiting around every corner. Here are a few must-do experiences:

• Explore Historic Plazas: Relax on a bench in the Plaza de la Independencia, home to the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral. Stroll to the Plaza de Francia for stunning panoramic views of the modern skyline and the Amador Causeway.
• Discover Architectural Gems: Visit the Iglesia de San José to witness its legendary Golden Altar, rumored to have been saved from pirates. See the iconic Arco Chato (Flat Arch), a stone arch whose stability convinced engineers that Panama was earthquake-proof enough for the canal.
• Savor the Culinary Scene: Casco Viejo is a food lover’s paradise. Enjoy world-class ceviche, indulge in artisanal coffee at a quaint café, or experience fine dining inside a lovingly restored colonial mansion.
• Experience the Rooftop Bar Culture: As the sun sets on this Sunday in August, there’s no better place to be than one of Casco Viejo’s famous rooftop bars. Sip a craft cocktail while taking in the breathtaking 360-degree views of the old city, the glowing skyscrapers, and the ships lining up to enter the Panama Canal.
• Shop for Local Treasures: Browse the shops for authentic Panama hats (which actually originate in Ecuador but were made famous here) and colorful molas handmade by the Guna people.

A visit to Casco Viejo is an immersive journey through time. It's a place where the echoes of history harmonize with the vibrant pulse of modern Panamanian culture, creating an experience that captivates the senses and captures the heart.