 anama La Vieja (Old Panama) is the name used for the architectural
vestiges of the Monumental Historic Complex of the first Spanish city founded on the
Pacific coast of the Americas by Pedro Arias de Avila on 15 August 1519. This city was the
starting point of the expeditions that conquered the Inca Empire in Peru (1532). It also
was a stopover point of one of the most important trade routes in the history of he
American continent leading to the famous fairs of Nombre de Dios (God’s Name) and
Portobelo where most of the gold and Silver that Spain took from the Americas passed
through.The fire, destruction and pillage that was caused by Henry
Morgan in 1671 provoked the move and construction of a new city in 1673, which today is
known as the Old City Center or Colonial Panama. Old Panama is one of the urban
attractions that can easily be visited and seen while walking through its old stone paved
streets now overgrown with grass to appreciate its 476-year old history. Currently a new
archeological project was started on this site with the idea of protecting and restoring
the ruins. The administration of the project is run by a foundation that is a joint force
between the government, a civic club and private enterprise.
Panama La Vieja (Old Panama) was declared a Historic Monumental Complex by Law 91 of 22
December 1976.
How to get there?
From Panama City Downtown it only is
a 10 to 15 minute drive by car, taxi or bus.
What to see?
A visit to this important historic
city may begin with a stop at the visitors center of the foundation were you can see a big
maquette of the city in all its splendor. In the same building the visitor will also find
a handicraft market and a Typical Panamanian restaurant.
The museum is open from Monday to
Saturday from 09:00 am to 04:00 pm and on Sundays from 09:00 am to 01:00 pm. Entrance
costs $ 1.00 per person. |
