What is the Capital of Panama? Panama City
Capital City of Panama: Panama City
City Overview
Panama City, the capital of the Republic of Panama, is the largest and most populous city in the country. Located at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Panama City is a global financial hub and a key player in international trade and commerce. The city’s strategic location and thriving port make it one of the most economically important cities in Central America. Its blend of modern skyscrapers, historic districts, and vibrant cultural life gives it a unique character, attracting visitors and business people from around the world. See Paradisdachat for other major cities in Panama.
Panama City was founded on August 15, 1519, by the Spanish explorer Pedro Arias de Ávila. Over the centuries, it grew from a small colonial outpost to a major port city that connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans via the Panama Canal. Today, the city is a thriving metropolis with a population of over 1.5 million people in the metropolitan area.
City Facts
- Area: Approximately 275.5 km² (106.3 square miles)
- Population: About 1.7 million (metropolitan area)
- Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST), UTC -5:00 (Panama does not observe daylight saving time).
- Highest Mountain: Volcán Barú (Volcano Barú), located in the western part of Panama, is the highest peak in the country, reaching 3,474 meters (11,398 feet) above sea level. However, it is not in the Panama City area.
- Longest River: The Chagres River, which is a vital water source for the Panama Canal, flows across central Panama and is one of the longest rivers in the country, measuring around 134 km (83 miles).
Major Landmarks in Panama City
Panama City is home to a rich collection of landmarks that blend its colonial heritage with its modern role as a global financial and cultural center.
- The Panama Canal: Undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Panama City, the Panama Canal is an artificial waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. This marvel of engineering is essential for international maritime trade and has been a major source of Panama’s economic strength. Visitors can explore the Miraflores Locks, where ships pass through the canal, and learn about its history at the canal museum.
- Casco Viejo (Old Quarter): The historic district of Casco Viejo (Old Town) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features colonial-era architecture, cobblestone streets, churches, and plazas. Notable sites within Casco Viejo include the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the Plaza de la Independencia.
- Panama Viejo: This is the site of the original Panama City, which was founded in 1519 and later abandoned after being destroyed by pirate attacks in 1671. The ruins of the old city, including the Panama Viejo Cathedral, offer a glimpse into the colonial past of the region.
- Cinta Costera: This scenic coastal road stretches along the bay of Panama City and offers stunning views of the ocean and the city’s skyline. It’s a popular spot for walking, biking, and enjoying outdoor activities, with many parks and recreational areas.
- Amador Causeway: A major tourist attraction, the Amador Causeway is a scenic road that connects Panama City to several small islands in the Bay of Panama. It offers views of the Panama Canal, modern skyscrapers, and historical landmarks, and is a popular destination for cycling and strolling.
- Biomuseo (Biodiversity Museum): Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is a museum dedicated to Panama’s biodiversity. Located near the entrance to the Panama Canal, the museum showcases the rich flora and fauna of the country and explains Panama’s role in the natural history of the Americas.
- Panama Canal Railway: The historic Panama Canal Railway offers a unique experience for tourists, providing a scenic and historic route along the canal, offering a glimpse of Panama’s colonial past as well as the modern Canal operation.
- The Bridge of the Americas: This iconic bridge connects the Pacific Ocean to the rest of Panama and is a major part of the country’s infrastructure. It provides stunning views of the Panama Canal and surrounding areas.
Climate Overview
Panama City experiences a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city is warm and humid year-round, with average temperatures ranging between 24°C (75°F) and 30°C (86°F). The dry season generally lasts from December to April, while the wet season spans from May to November.
Climate Data for Panama City
| Month | Avg Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27 | 30 | 20 |
| February | 27 | 20 | 22 |
| March | 28 | 20 | 22 |
| April | 28 | 60 | 18 |
| May | 28 | 160 | 15 |
| June | 28 | 160 | 12 |
| July | 28 | 150 | 13 |
| August | 28 | 170 | 11 |
| September | 28 | 220 | 10 |
| October | 28 | 240 | 9 |
| November | 28 | 150 | 12 |
| December | 27 | 50 | 18 |
Other Cities as Capital in the History of Panama
Before Panama City became the capital, the area underwent several political and historical changes. Other cities have also held importance in Panama’s history.
- Portobelo (First Capital, 16th Century)
- Time Period: During the Spanish colonial era, Portobelo was one of the most important ports in the Spanish empire, serving as a key hub for trade and transportation in the Americas.
- Significance: In the 1500s, Portobelo was briefly the capital of Panama until it was replaced by Panama City due to its better geographical position.
- Panama Viejo (Old Panama) (1519–1671)
- Time Period: The original settlement of Panama City was called Panama Viejo and served as the capital of the region. It was the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas and a key point for trade across the isthmus.
- Significance: Panama Viejo was abandoned after a pirate raid led by the infamous Henry Morgan in 1671, and the capital was subsequently moved to the modern Panama City.
Country Facts
- Country Name: Republic of Panama
- Capital: Panama City
- Population: Approximately 4.5 million (2023 estimate)
- Area: 75,000 km² (29,000 square miles)
- Largest City: Panama City
- Currency: Balboa (PAB) and U.S. Dollar (USD) (USD is widely used in Panama).
- Official Language: Spanish
- ISO Country Codes: PA (Alpha-2), PAN (Alpha-3), 591 (Numeric)
- Government: Presidential Republic
- Religion: The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, with a significant Protestant minority.
Panama City stands as a shining example of a modern city that has preserved its rich colonial past while embracing contemporary global influence. The city is home to key landmarks, from the Panama Canal to its historic districts, offering visitors a vibrant and multifaceted experience. With its strategic location, bustling trade economy, and rich history, Panama City is not only the capital of Panama but also a symbol of the country’s development and resilience.
