Archaeological Site of Panama Viejo and Historic District of Panama, Panama

Panama, the capital of the eponymous state, has a picturesque historic district. Panama Viejo is a great old city that was once destroyed by pirates. The city was founded on the Pacific coast as far back as 1517. At that time, it was the utmost European city of the continent. Since its founding, Panama Viejo had a single meaning. It was an important defensive point of the trade route from Peru to the Old World. It was used for transporting precious metals and treasures of the Incas.

Two years after the founding, Panama Viejo gained the status of a city. At that time, the population was about one hundred people. For many years, the city valiantly defended against pirate attacks. Only Henry Morgan managed to conquer it. He captured the Panama Viejo in 1671. The city was completely plundered and destroyed. Today, only preserved ruins of the 15th-16th centuries are reminiscent about the period of prosperity.

However, despite the intervention, some buildings of pre-Columbian period managed to survive quite well. Among them, it’s worth noting several churches and a square tower which is the surviving part of the Catedral Viejo. The old building of the university, as well as the ruins of monasteries and cathedral were also preserved in the historic district. Its deserted streets feature the historical building of the Museum of History that will be interesting to anyone. It is noteworthy that very close to the ruins of the old town there is a new district of the capital. About 8 000 people are living in the immediate vicinity of the unique historical sites. Next - Independence Hall