Stroll Through History in Old Quarter Panama
Ready to get your culture fix and feel like you’ve stepped into a history book (minus the dusty pages)? Then it’s time to explore the Old Quarter of Panama City — a place so rich in history, you’ll probably end up quoting fun facts about colonial architecture at your next dinner party. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, this neighborhood is like a time machine, minus the awkward 80s outfits and questionable hairstyles.
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A Walk Through Time (With No Need for a Time Machine)
Your excursion begins in the old quarters of Panama City, where streets are embellished with colonial, neoclassical and French architecture all at once! It’s as though your favourite periods in time came together to have a dinner showcase on their best designs. You will pass through a series of plazas, small by roads, and in some places even cobblestone-only roads while trying hard to avoid gravel that has all the potential of tripping you, which has certainly witnessed a fair share of commotion. Well to all readers, try not to be anxious if the wanted feeling of time travel overtakes you and you feel lost in the past under captivating perfect settings.
San José Church: Where History Meets Holy Vibes
First sight: the San Jose Church. Quite an architectural wonder, with a past of breathtaking stories. The church has been around since the 1600s, now do the math in today`s world and you will understand how this magnificent building witnessed several people walk in and walk out of it. Among the many was the coveted golden altar, which is said to be so bright would potentially require you to put on a pair of sunglasses to bear the ray. Just as one enters this place, it becomes clear why this architectural wonder has served the world for this long. It’s as if someone was relating the past to the present alongside the needed luxury (thank God no tights or lace collars are required).
Plaza Francia: Where You’ll Feel Like Royalty
Next, it’s time for a visit to Plaza Francia — a square with an incredible view (because who doesn’t like a little sea breeze with their history lesson?). Nestled at the tip of the peninsula, this spot gives you a front-row seat to the sea, making it a perfect backdrop for selfies (because let’s face it, your group photo is going to be Instagram gold). You’ll also find some pretty impressive buildings surrounding the plaza, like the Embassy of France, the National Institute for Culture, and the Anita Villalaz Theater. You know, just casual, iconic structures that add a little extra sparkle to your day.
Plaza Bolívar: History, Culture, and More Instagram Moments
A short walk from Plaza Francia takes you to Plaza Bolívar, where things only get more charming. This square is flanked by the San Francisco Church and the National Theater — two architectural gems that are guaranteed to make your group say, “Wow, that’s a lot of culture in one spot.” Plus, if you’re into history, you’ll be standing just steps away from Casa Góngora, the oldest house in the Old Quarter. It’s practically the grandmother of all houses — sturdy, full of stories, and probably has a few secrets hiding behind its walls.
Independence Square: The Grand Finale
No historic tour of Panama City would be complete without a stop at Independence Square (aka Plaza de la Catedral). As one of the bastions of the Old Quarter, this spot feels like the final chapter in a fascinating book. And let’s be honest, any place with such a grand name is definitely worth a visit. Here, you can take in the sights of churches, theaters, and so much more — all while imagining what life was like back in the day. You might even catch yourself whispering, “I’ll just have one more selfie, then we’ll move on…”
Culture, History, and a Whole Lot of Charm
I bet by the end of the trip, you would have amassed quite a few Panama City history facts which you can then use to brag to your friends (assuming you do nothing at the next trivia session). You would have walked the rough cobbles, seen beautiful buildings, and simply blended in a fine piece of history that looks and feels alive as the city itself. So pack your cam ready to click the big grins, grab your zeal and let’s go to the Old town of Panama one building, plaza and of course a selfie of a lifetime at a time.
So come Stroll Through History in Old Quarter Panama!
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