Casco Viejo, Panama City’s Old Quarter
Embark on a journey through time in the heart of Panama City, where every street tells a tale – welcome to the enchanting world of Casco Viejo. Nestled in the historic San Felipe district, this gem is better known as the ‘old town’ or ‘old quarter,’ a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site that whispers secrets from centuries past.
Picture this: August 1670, Captain Henry Morgan, a dashing Welsh pirate, set sail with a fleet of 36 ships and nearly 2,000 buccaneers to conquer Panamá, a crown jewel in Spain’s American empire. Crossing the Isthmus of Panama, he triumphed over a formidable Spanish force, destroying the original settlement (now the ruins of Panama Viejo which you can visit). But from the ashes of defeat, a new town was developed in Casco (a more defensible location) and the whole of Panama City as you see it today has sprung up from there.
Indeed, the transformation of Casco Viejo in Panama City has been quite remarkable over the past couple of decades. Once a neglected and rundown area, Casco Viejo has been revitalized into a vibrant cultural and historical hub.
The restoration efforts have preserved the area’s colonial charm while introducing modern amenities and attractions. Historic buildings have been renovated into boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, art galleries, and stylish cafes, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Casco Viejo has become a center for nightlife, with its lively bars and clubs contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. The neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and colorful architecture offer a picturesque backdrop for visitors exploring its narrow alleys and hidden gems.
Casco Viejo isn’t just a historic retreat; it’s a melting pot of cultural experiences catering to every whim. Whether you seek a relaxed daytime amble with a brunch pitstop or an evening pulsating with rooftop bars and dance floors, Casco delivers. Cruise ships navigating the Panama Canal often grace Casco Viejo, ferrying tourists eager to immerse themselves in history and peruse local, indigenous crafts from countless stalls and souvenir shops.
Casco is a melting pot of cultural experiences and has something for everyone. If you want a relaxed stroll in the day, with a nice brunch, then you can visit any number of places from the more casual Mahalo Snack Shack, Café Sucre Coffeehouse and Café Unido to the higher end American Trade Hotel, Hotel La Compañía and Vera Café in the famous Sofitel Legend Hotel. These last three also cater lunch and dinner, but you will not be lacking for lunch and dinner options in Casco that’s for sure, with so many different cuisines to choose from, traditional Panamanian, Mexican, French, Spanish, Italian, Peruvian, Asian, and many more, you won’t be disappointed. If you have a sweet tooth, Bennissimo’s ice-cream is not to be missed! It’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day (which is every day in Panama!). They handmake their own and you really can’t go wrong with any flavor, though a combination of their Passionfruit Sorbet with their Coconut ice-cream is a tropical masterpiece.
As the sun sets, Casco transforms into a nightlife haven. Rooftop bars beckon with tantalizing cocktails, and Saturday nights at Tacos La Neta above the Selina Hostel are legendary for those who seek to dance under the stars.
Lodging in Casco is as diverse as the experiences it offers. From opulent hotels to colonial-style apartments with picturesque balconies and chic hostels, there’s accommodation for every taste and budget. Yet, be warned – the nocturnal symphony of Casco may serenade you through the night, so bear that in mind when choosing the location of your accommodation if you’re not a night owl.
Casco Viejo isn’t merely a tourist haven; it’s a cinematic backdrop that has captured the imagination of filmmakers. Wander through the same streets graced by James Bond in ‘Quantum of Solace,’ or relive thrilling Money Heist moments filmed amid Casco’s historic charm. The Suicide Squad showcased the district as the fictional Corto Maltese, turning Palacio Municipal de Panama into the Corto Maltese Government Palace.
Casco Viejo isn’t just a historic retreat; it’s a melting pot of cultural experiences catering to every whim.
And this is just the beginning of Casco’s story. With ongoing renovations and burgeoning investments, this historic haven continues to evolve, promising an even more extraordinary adventure with each visit. So, pack your bags and let the magic of Casco Viejo unfold before you – a captivating blend of history, culture, and pure, unbridled allure awaits.
