Discover the Rich History at Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo
Explore the captivating history of Panama City at the Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with rich cultural narratives.
A brief summary to Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo
- 2G34+JM7, final, Av. Ernesto T. Lefevre, Panama City, Panamá Province, PA
- +507226-8915
- Visit website
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
The Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo stands as a gateway to the rich history of Panama City, showcasing the remnants of the city’s original settlement. Visitors are welcomed into a vibrant space filled with informative exhibits that detail the transformation of the area from its early days to its current status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Within the center, guests can delve into fascinating artifacts and narratives that highlight the cultural significance of this historic locale. As you wander through the exhibits, you'll be captivated by the stories of the past, including the rise and fall of the original Panama Viejo, which was founded in 1519. The center serves not only as a library but also as an educational hub for tourists and locals alike, providing insights into the archaeological efforts that continue to uncover the secrets of this ancient city. Guided tours are available, offering an in-depth look at the archaeological sites surrounding the center, including the iconic ruins of the cathedral that once towered over the settlement. To truly appreciate the Centro de Visitantes, plan your visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and to enjoy a leisurely exploration of the exhibits. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the adjacent archaeological park, where the remnants of Panama Viejo await, offering stunning views and a tangible connection to the city’s storied past. Whether you're a history buff or a curious traveler, the Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Panama's cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
- Check the schedule for guided tours for deeper insights into the history of Panama Viejo.
- Allocate time to explore the surrounding archaeological park for a complete experience.
- Bring a camera; the ruins and exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the site.
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo from the city center, you can take a public bus. Start by heading to the nearest bus stop from your location. Look for buses heading towards 'Panamá Viejo' or 'Las Mañanitas'. The bus ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the 'Panamá Viejo' bus stop, disembark and walk towards Av. Ernesto T. Lefevre. The Centro de Visitantes will be a short walk away, just follow the signs.
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Metro
If you are near the Metro stations in Panama City, take Line 1 (the red line) to the 'Albrook' station. From there, transfer to a bus or taxi that goes towards 'Panamá Viejo'. Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly from the Albrook station to the Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo, which should take about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing service like Uber. Simply input 'Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo' as your destination. Depending on your starting point in Panama City, the ride should take about 10-30 minutes.
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Walking from Nearby Landmarks
If you are near the 'Parque Urracá', you can walk to Centro de Visitantes de Panamá Viejo. Head east on Avenida Manuel Espinosa Batista, then turn left onto Av. Ernesto T. Lefevre. Continue walking straight for about 1.5 kilometers until you reach the Centro de Visitantes. The walk should take approximately 20-25 minutes.