Heritage

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Since 1997, Casco Antiguo has held UNESCO World Heritage status for its extraordinary blend of Spanish colonial, neoclassical, and Caribbean architecture. Wander through history

Historic Churches & Faith Sites

From the towering Metropolitan Cathedral to the ruins of Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, Casco’s churches reveal the city’s spiritual journey. A must for architecture lovers and seekers alike.

Cultural Heritage of Casco Viejo

Explore sites like Plaza Herrera, the French Plaza, and remnants of the sea wall that once guarded the old city. These aren’t just landmarks—they’re milestones in the making of a nation.

Panama’s Historic District: A Living Story Still Unfolding

Casco Viejo — the heart of Panama’s Historic District – Cultural Heritage of Casco Viejo— is one of the oldest and best-preserved neighborhoods in the country. Its story began in the 1600s, and it still serves as the soul of the old city today.

Covering nearly 38 hectares, Casco is more than just charming — it’s protected by national law and honored by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site under the name Historic District of Panamá. The core of this area, known as San Felipe, holds the same spirit and pride it has for generations.

You’ll also see Santa Ana and El Chorrillo noted on heritage maps as part of the official buffer zone. These areas are full of history and character, but just a friendly heads-up — they’re not quite ready for tourism in the same way Casco Viejo is. While they remain an important part of the district’s story, we recommend you enjoy them from a respectful distance for now.

Before the canal, before the skyscrapers, this was Panama City. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s — with the building of the transcontinental railroad — that the city began to grow beyond Casco. Then came the canal, the Canal Zone, and modern suburbs. But here in Casco, time slowed just enough to preserve something truly special.

So take your time. Look up. Wander the streets where presidents, artisans, and families once built the foundation of Panama as we know it today.

Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Panama in Casco Viejo with twin white bell towers and a historic stone façade

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama

A landmark of faith, power, and perseverance.

One of the oldest cathedrals in Central America, this baroque beauty took over 100 years to complete. Its twin bell towers, whitewashed facade, and rich interior reflect the endurance of Panamanian spirit and the region’s colonial legacy. The Cultural Heritage of Casco Viejo

Dicover the churches

Step Into the Story of Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place you walk, feel, and discover. Every corner tells a story. Every façade has a past.

This walking map invites you to explore Panama’s most treasured district the way it was meant to be experienced — on foot. Whether you’re admiring the arches of Santo Domingo, peering into the old canal headquarters, or standing where presidents once stood, you’re walking in the footsteps of the families and pioneers who shaped Panama.

Take your time. Wander. Look up. Let the architecture speak, and imagine the lives that built this place — not just politicians and priests, but merchants, musicians, craftsmen, and visionaries.

➢ Follow the numbered stops to guide your walk, or simply let the spirit of Casco lead you.

🖨 You can also download a printable version of the map below just click on the Map to take with you as you go.

Map of historic buildings and landmarks in Casco Viejo, the Old Quarter of Panama City
A detailed map of El Casco Antiguo de Panamá showing historic buildings, churches, plazas, and Cultural Heritage of Casco Viejo, landmarks throughout the Old Quarter of Panama City.
Statue of Justo Arosemena in Plaza Catedral, Casco Viejo, with the bell tower of the Metropolitan Cathedral rising in the background beneath a clear sky.

Statues tell Casco’s story of conquest, independence, canal dreams, and national pride

Archways, balconies, and pastel hues that tell stories with their shadows.

Panama flag waving over Plaza Catedral with Museo del Canal and protest tents in Casco Viejo, Panama.

Cultural Heritage of Casco Viejo

Discover artifacts, documents, and multimedia exhibits that bridge the past and present.

Front facade of Teatro Nacional in Casco Viejo, Panama, showing neoclassical columns, arched doorways, decorative statues, and ornate wrought-iron street lamps.

National Theater of Panama

An opulent icon of art and politics—still hosting performances today.

A Walk to the Edge of Two Worlds

Just a 5- to 10-minute stroll from Casco’s colonial heart, this breathtaking view of the Bridge of the Americas reminds you—you’re standing at a global crossroads. Watch ships from every continent glide beneath, connecting oceans and cultures in real time. It’s more than a photo op. It’s a front-row seat to history in motion.

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Cultural Heritage of Casco Viejo

Tribute to French Visionaries

Before the Americans, it was the French who first dared to imagine a canal cutting through Panama. This striking obelisk, topped with a rooster—the symbol of France—honors those bold dreamers and engineers who, despite failure, laid the groundwork for what would become the Panama Canal. Surrounded by busts of key figures, the monument stands as a focal point in Casco Viejo’s Plaza de Francia, gazing out toward the Pacific Ocean. It’s a powerful reminder of ambition, sacrifice, and the international legacy that shaped modern Panama.
Panoramic shot of the Independence Monument in Plaza de la Independencia, Casco Viejo, featuring statues of national heroes surrounding the central obelisk under a blue sky.
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Contrast between a decaying colonial facade and the white bell tower of the Metropolitan Cathedral in Casco Viejo, Panama, with cobblestone street and trees below.
Elegant white building of the French Embassy in Casco Viejo, Panama, with blue shutters and French and Panamanian flags flying above the main entrance.
“From here, the French Embassy keeps watch over Plaza de Francia, where the story of the Panama Canal truly began.”

Q&A

What makes Casco Viejo a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Casco Viejo earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997 for its extraordinary blend of Spanish colonial, neoclassical, and Caribbean architecture. Its narrow streets and plazas tell the story of Panama’s conquest, independence, and rebirth.

Which historic sites should I not miss?

Start with the Metropolitan Cathedral and Plaza de la Independencia, walk to Plaza de Francia to see the French Embassy and obelisk, tour the National Theater, and step into museums like Museo del Canal and Museo de la Mola.

Can I see the Panama Canal from Casco Viejo?

Yes — from Plaza de Francia and the southern seawall you’ll see the Pacific entrance of the canal, Amador Causeway, and the Bridge of the Americas. Sunset is the best time for photos.

Is Casco Viejo a good place for museums?

Absolutely. Museo del Canal explores the building of the canal, Museo de la Mola celebrates Guna culture, and temporary exhibits pop up in restored colonial buildings year-round.

Is Casco Viejo walkable?

Yes — Casco Viejo is only 40 acres and was built to be explored on foot. Wear good shoes, stop often, and take in the churches, plazas, street art, and views as you wander.

Fast Facts About Casco Viejo

  • Size & Scale

    Casco Viejo spans just 40 acres (16 hectares), making it an intimate, walkable district where every corner holds a story.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Recognized in 1997 for its Spanish colonial, neoclassical, and Caribbean architecture — a living museum of Panama’s history.

  • Historic Churches

    From the soaring towers of the Metropolitan Cathedral to Iglesia de la Merced and Iglesia de San José, faith and history meet in every plaza.

  • Culture & the Arts

    The National Theater, Museo del Canal, and Museo de la Mola offer world-class windows into Panama’s past, present, and creativity.

  • French Legacy

    Plaza de Francia and the French Embassy overlook the Pacific, honoring the first bold attempt to build the Panama Canal.

  • Iconic Views

    From Casco’s seawalls, take in the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Amador Causeway, and the Bridge of the Americas — sunset is spectacular.

  • Civic Core

    The Palacio Municipal (Mayor’s Office) and government buildings anchor Casco as both a historic district and Panama City’s civic heart.

Where to Stay in Casco Viejo

Discover the best hotels in Casco for recovery—quiet, stylish, and just minutes from Panama’s top clinics and hospitals.

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Healthy Dining for Recovery

Explore Casco’s best cafes and restaurants with clean, recovery-friendly menus that nourish without sacrificing flavor.

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Gentle Self-Guided Walks

Take a scenic stroll through Casco Viejo’s historic streets—perfect for movement, recovery, and reconnecting with the beauty around you.

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