Casco Antiguo
The Casco Antiguo of Panama City, also known as San Felipe, is the historic district of Panama City. Founded in 1673 after the original settlement (Panamá Viejo) was destroyed by the pirate Henry Morgan, it was built as a walled city on a small rocky peninsula.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a rich mix of architectural styles reflecting its history: from the imposing Spanish colonial architecture with its churches and elegant plazas, through French and neoclassical influences of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a rich mix of architectural styles reflecting its history: from the imposing Spanish colonial architecture with its churches and elegant plazas, through French and neoclassical influences of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Among its main attractions are the Plaza de la Independencia (Independence Square), the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Presidential Palace (Palacio de las Garzas), the Church of San José with its golden altar, the Paseo de las Bóvedas (The Vaults Promenade), and the ruins of the old fortifications.
In recent decades, the Casco Antiguo has undergone significant revitalization. Many of its historic buildings have been restored and now house fine dining restaurants, charming bars, boutique hotels, art galleries, and artisan shops, turning it into a vibrant cultural, tourist, and nightlife hub in Panama City. Despite its modernization, it retains its historical atmosphere and its importance as a testament to the city’s colonial past.”
Good To Know
History
Founded in 1673 after pirate Henry Morgan destroyed Panama Viejo, the Casco Antiguo (also known as San Felipe) was built as a walled city on a peninsula. Its architecture blends Spanish colonial, French, and neoclassical styles. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it features key landmarks like the Plaza de la Independencia and the Church of San José. After decades of neglect, it’s been revitalized with restaurants, hotels, and shops, becoming a vibrant cultural and tourist center while preserving its historic charm and colonial legacy.
