- Description
- Additional Info
The Old Quarter, also known as Casco Antiguo or Casco Viejo, is the historic district of Panama City. It was completed and settled in 1673, after the destruction of the original city in 1671 by Henry Morgan.
Casco Antiguo is a World Heritage Site since 1997. Its streets, buildings, plazas, and churches are beautiful and preserved, thanks to a multi-decade renovation effort by private, public, and non-profit organizations.
In this tour, we'll explore different aspects of Panama's rich history through various museums. Firstly, we will bridge the modern and colonial eras to the Native American past of the nation by visiting the famous Museum of the Molas. There, we'll observe the fine textiles of Panamanian indigenous people known as the Gunas.
Next, we'll visit the iconic Church La Merced with its original wooden roof of over 300 years. It earned its title as the Church of the Two Cities because it was rebuilt stone by stone when the city relocated.
Finally, we will discover the history of the maritime routes of the isthmus in the Museum of the Interoceanic Canal, including the French attempt in the 19th century to construct the waterway.
Throughout the excursion, we will cover essential information, like:
- The culture of the Guna people and their famous textiles.
- The history and design of the most preserved Church in the Old Quarter and its religious artifacts.
- How the people still managed to take advantage of the isthmus geographic position to trade and travel faster, even before the days of the Panama Canal.
- And so much more.
The tour takes approximately 3-hours to complete.
The tour is available Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 9:30am and 1:30pm.
Duration
This 3-hour walking tour will take us all around the site.
Languages
The tour is available in Spanish and English.
What's included
Professional and certified guide.
Entrance to the museums.
Stops for the restroom.
Optional: Access to Bluetooth-enabled headphones for larger groups.
Transportation to / from tour
Prices
Minor (< 18 years-old) - Resident - $20.00
Retired - Resident - $32.00
Adult - Resident - $40.00
Minor (< 18 years-old) - Non-resident - $25.00
Retired - Non-resident - $40.00
Adult - Non-resident - $49.00
Meeting point
The tour departs from Plaza Herrera. Please arrive 30 minutes before it starts.
About your guide
Diego is a Panamanian who masterfully uses storytelling to share his love for the city through engaging facts, unique locations and personal anecdotes. His enthusiasm for history is highly contagious and he’ll patiently answer all of your questions. He’s a certified tour guide, member of the Panamanian Association of Anthropology & History, and expert in connecting historic and current events. His sweet nature and accommodating character will make your experience in Panama seamless and unforgettable!