Panama City Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / November 19, 2024
Panama City Then
Panama City, the capital of the Republic of Panama, holds a rich historical significance as a key location in the Spanish colonization of the Americas.
Founded on August 15, 1519, by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias Dávila, the city quickly became an important hub for trade and exploration.
It served as a launching point for expeditions into the Americas, most notably those that led to the conquest of the Inca Empire in Peru.
Situated strategically along one of the most vital trade routes in the Americas, Panama City facilitated the transportation of precious metals like gold and silver, mined from Spanish colonies, to Spain.
The city’s location also made it a critical stopover point for merchants traveling between the fairs of Nombre de Dios and Portobelo, contributing significantly to the wealth and power of the Spanish Empire during the colonial era.
Over time, Panama City grew in prominence, playing a central role in both the colonial economy and the cultural exchange between the Americas and Europe.
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Panama City History
Panama City, originally an Indian fishing village, has a rich and dynamic history that spans centuries.
The name “Panamá” itself, meaning “many fish,” reflects its indigenous roots before the Spanish arrival.
Founded in 1519 by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias Dávila, the city quickly became an important colonial hub.
As the starting point for expeditions into the Americas, it played a key role in the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire and served as a critical transit point for gold and silver bound for Spain.
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These precious metals were transported overland across the isthmus from Panama City to Caribbean ports like Nombre de Dios and Portobelo for shipment to Spain.
Despite its early prosperity, the city was frequently targeted by pirates and privateers.
Notably, in 1595, Sir Francis Drake attempted an unsuccessful attack, but in 1671, the infamous pirate Henry Morgan succeeded in completely destroying the old city.
In 1674, the city was rebuilt around 5 miles southwest of its original location, giving rise to Panamá Nuevo, which is now known as Casco Viejo.
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The new city continued to thrive, though it eventually became part of the Viceroyalty of New Granada in 1751.
Panama’s political instability throughout the 19th century was marked by constant upheaval.
However, in 1903, Panama City became the capital of the newly independent Panama, and its development was greatly influenced by the construction of the Panama Canal between 1904 and 1914.
This transformation turned Panama City into a modern, bustling metropolis, blending cultural influences from around the world due to the influx of workers and traders, including descendants of West Indian laborers who helped build the canal.
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This diverse population contributed to the creation of new musical genres like reggae en español and reggaeton.
The city’s growth continued throughout the 20th century, despite political turmoil such as the invasion of Panama in 1989 during Operation Just Cause, which led to significant looting.
Today, Panama City is the largest urban area in the country, with its metropolitan area housing nearly two-fifths of Panama’s population.
Its economy thrives on financial services, canal-related activities, and various industries.
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The city’s port facilities, located in nearby Balboa, are crucial for international trade.
The Panama Canal, Panama Canal Railway, and Inter-American Highway provide essential connectivity, further boosting the city’s importance as a commercial and transportation hub.
Despite its modern advancements, Panama City preserves many colonial-era landmarks, such as its historic cathedral and the restored Casco Viejo district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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The city’s green spaces, including Metropolitan Natural Park and nearby national parks, offer a glimpse into Panama’s rich tropical biodiversity.
Panama City’s cultural landscape is enriched by its universities, research institutes, and museums, such as the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.
Modern buildings like the Palace of Justice and the National Palace coexist with historical architecture, making Panama City a vibrant blend of old and new, continuously evolving while honoring its heritage.
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Panama City Now
Panama City, the capital and largest city of Panama, is strategically located at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, in the province of Panama.
With a population of over 1 million in the city itself and more than 2 million in the metropolitan area, it serves as the political, administrative, and economic center of the country.
The city is not only a hub for banking and commerce but also plays a crucial role in the global trade system, thanks to its proximity to one of the most significant engineering marvels in the world—the Panama Canal.
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The city is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the lush tropical rainforests that define much of the surrounding landscape.
To the city’s north lies the Parque Natural Metropolitano (Metropolitan Nature Park), a unique natural area that stretches along the Panama Canal.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including rare species of birds, tapirs, pumas, and caimans, offering a glimpse of Panama’s rich biodiversity.
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Furthermore, the Centro de Exhibiciones Marinas (Marine Exhibitions Center), managed by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, is located at the Pacific entrance of the canal.
This center serves as a research facility dedicated to studying tropical marine life and ecology, underscoring the city’s role in scientific exploration and conservation.
The tropical forests surrounding Panama City are vital to the functioning of the Panama Canal, providing the water necessary for its operations.
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The canal itself is a rare example of a large-scale engineering project located within a pristine forest environment, and its construction has, somewhat uniquely, helped preserve these surrounding forests.
On the western side of the canal lies Parque Nacional Soberanía (Sovereignty National Park), which includes the Summit Botanical Gardens and a zoo.
A key attraction within the park is Pipeline Road, a famous trail known for birdwatching, drawing nature enthusiasts from around the world.
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Panama City’s landscape is also shaped by nearly 500 rivers that wind through the country’s rugged terrain.
While many of these rivers are not navigable, they are essential to Panama’s hydroelectric power generation.
The Río Chagres, one of the longest and most significant rivers in the country, plays a vital role in the operation of the Panama Canal.
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It feeds into Gatun Lake, which forms a major part of the canal’s transit route.
Additionally, the Río Chagres and the Río Chepo, both of which flow through the city, provide much of the hydroelectric power needed for Panama’s energy consumption, contributing to the country’s sustainable energy resources.
These rivers, along with the lush forests and wildlife they support, underscore Panama City’s importance as both an economic and ecological center in the region.
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FAQs
Panama City is best known for being the gateway to the Panama Canal, one of the world’s most important engineering feats that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
It is also famous for its modern skyline, historic district (Casco Viejo), and vibrant cultural scene.
As of recent reports, Panama is generally considered safe for travelers. However, like any destination, it’s important to exercise caution, especially in certain areas, and stay informed about local conditions. Always check government travel advisories before planning a trip.
Panama is famous primarily for the Panama Canal, which plays a key role in global trade.
The country is also known for its biodiversity, tropical rainforests, rich cultural heritage, and the vibrant city of Panama City.
Panama can be considered affordable in some areas, especially for basic goods and local food.
However, costs can rise significantly in urban centers like Panama City, particularly for imported goods, luxury items, or upscale accommodations.
It’s generally cheaper than many Western countries, but not as inexpensive as other Central American nations.