Commemorating 505 Years of Panama La Vieja: A Historical and Cultural Legacy

14.08.2024
News
Commemorating 505 Years of Panama La Vieja: A Historical and Cultural Legacy

This year, we proudly celebrate the 505th anniversary of the founding of Panama La Vieja, the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas, founded on August 15, 1519. This emblematic site, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is much more than a set of ruins; it is a living testimony of our history and culture.

Panama La Vieja was a thriving commercial center and a strategic point on the trade routes between Europe and America. However, in 1671, the city was destroyed by the pirate Henry Morgan, marking the end of an era. Despite its destruction, the ruins that remain are a palpable reminder of the tenacity and resilience of our people.

Today, Panama La Vieja is a place of reflection and learning, where visitors from around the world can walk its cobblestone streets and admire the remains of its cathedral, convents and colonial houses. It is a space that connects us with our past, while we look to the future with hope and determination.

In these 505 years, Panama La Vieja continues to be a symbol of our national identity, a source of pride for all Panamanians. By honoring its history, we reaffirm our commitment to preserve and cherish this legacy for generations to come.