Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo, also known as Panama la Vieja, is the ruin of the original settlement of Panama City. Originally called Castilla del Oro, it was established on August 15th, 1510 by Pedro Ariad de Vila of Spain. This colony is important because it was the first one established by Europeans on the Pacific Ocean. It served as a halt for the export of gold and silver from Peru on the journey back to Spain. If you want to fully grasp the past of Panama City, you must see it when you are there.

Today, Panama Viejo is a busy archaeological site in the Panama City outskirts, in an impoverished residential area. The city grew up around it, and some of the old city remnants are buried. What is above ground has been exposed to the weather for hundreds of years. You can visit Panama Viejo to see the ruins remaining. The bell tower, as well as the outline of the church and some of the structures surrounding Plaza Mayor, have all been rebuilt. Buildings that are now in rubble can still be walked through. You can even ascend the bell tower to see the views of the destroyed city and the fascinating contrast between it and the contemporary city behind it.

Beautiful, contemporary, and relatively new is the Panama Viejo Museum. It is a decent size and takes you through daily living in the heyday of the first Panama City colony. You can learn a about the people and past of this place as well as view a ton of artifacts there.

Google Rating: 4.6/5

Website: https://www.patronatopanamaviejo.org/

Phone: +507 226-8915

Opening Hours: Tue to Sun - 8:30 to 16:30

Address: 2G47+MWJ, Vía Cincuentenario, Panama City, Panama