The Historic Charm of Casco Viejo

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-bohr/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyen-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-bohr]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-bohr]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Fuera!
  [fweh-rah]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es muy caro
  [ehs-toh ehs moo-ee kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Y media
  [ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (pah-rah)]

Casco Viejo, also known as San Felipe, was established in 1673 after the original settlement of Panama Viejo was sacked by the pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. The Spanish Crown decided to relocate the city to a more defensible location, leading to the construction of Casco Viejo. This area became a key administrative and religious center, with the establishment of churches, plazas, and government buildings.

Throughout the 18th century, Casco Viejo experienced significant growth and development. The architecture of the neighborhood reflects a blend of Spanish colonial, neoclassical, and Art Deco styles. Important structures from this period include the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio de las Garzas, which served as the presidential palace. The area's unique architectural heritage led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

In the late 19th century, Casco Viejo was influenced by the French attempt to construct a canal through Panama, which ultimately failed. However, this period introduced new cultural elements and a diverse population, including French expatriates. The subsequent American involvement in the construction of the Panama Canal in the early 20th century further transformed the area, bringing a mix of cultures and economic growth.

Following the completion of the Panama Canal in 1914, Casco Viejo began to decline as the focus shifted to the modern areas of Panama City. Many residents moved away, and the neighborhood fell into disrepair. Urban decay became prevalent, with buildings deteriorating and crime rates rising, leading to a significant loss of population and cultural vibrancy.

Starting in the late 20th century, efforts were made to revitalize Casco Viejo. Restoration projects aimed to preserve its historical architecture and promote tourism. This revitalization has sparked a cultural renaissance, attracting artists, restaurants, and boutique hotels, transforming Casco Viejo into a vibrant hub of activity while maintaining its historical charm.

Casco Viejo is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Panama City. From the city center, you can take a taxi, which provides a convenient and direct route. Alternatively, the Metro has a station at 'Cinco de Mayo,' and from there, it’s a short taxi ride to Casco Viejo. Buses also operate from the Albrook Bus Terminal, but they may not be the most direct option.

Casco Viejo is best explored on foot due to its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Bicycle rentals are available, and some hotels offer bicycles for guests. While taxis are available, they may not be necessary for short distances within the neighborhood.

Casco Viejo is generally safe for tourists, especially during the daytime. However, it's advisable to avoid certain areas outside the main tourist zone after dark, particularly near the outskirts of the neighborhood. Always remain vigilant and keep your belongings secure, as petty theft can occur.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital to Casco Viejo is Hospital Santo Tomás, located a short taxi ride away. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies are also available within the neighborhood for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress appropriately for visiting religious sites. Don’t wear revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly when visiting churches. Don’t take photographs where prohibited. Public Transport: Do be courteous on public transport, and don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile, and don’t forget to say 'buenas' (hello) when entering shops. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages, particularly in small eateries. Don’t waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Casco Viejo like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with local vendors and residents, as they often share stories about the area’s rich history. Don’t miss the sunset views from the Cinta Costera, a popular promenade that offers stunning vistas of the skyline and Casco Viejo. Consider taking a guided walking tour to delve deeper into the neighborhood's history and architecture.