Did you know that Panamá—just under 72,000 km²—offers one of the most concentrated collections of UNESCO World Heritage sites within reach of Panama City? With the 2025 inscription of the Colonial Transisthmian Route, now officially recognized by UNESCO, it’s the perfect time to spotlight Panamá’s Historic Circuit: three interconnected heritage sites that together trace a historic path of commerce, culture, and conquest.
Journey from 16th‑century ruins and Caribbean fortresses to jungle trails once used for transporting gold, silver and merch—this circuit invites travelers seeking rich storytelling.
- The Colonial Transisthmian Route (2025): Starting in the Pacific and ending at the Caribbean Ocean, this newly recognized corridor links from the capital Panama City, Panama Viejo, and Casco Antiguo, with Portobelo, San Lorenzo, on the Caribbean through jungle trails like Camino de Cruces, which includes portion on land, river, and seas – and Camino Real, which is 100% on land. Travelers can trace centuries-old trade routes, once traversed by pirates for hikes and exploration rich with history and cultural connection.
- Fortifications on the Caribbean Side of Panamá: Portobelo-San Lorenzo (1980): Step into Panamá’s colonial legacy at Portobelo and San Lorenzo, where visitors can explore cannon-lined forts and soak in breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea as it flows toward the Panama Canal. These coastal strongholds—once among the Spanish Crown’s most vital commercial ports—showcase outstanding examples of colonial military architecture and reveal a dramatic history shaped by 17th- and 18th-century piracy, strategic defense, and transatlantic trade. Portobelo is also a vibrant center of Congo culture, brought by enslaved Africans from Central Africa. Today, this resilient heritage lives on through traditional dance, music, and spiritual rituals—recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
- Archaeological Site of Panama Viejo & Casco Antiguo (1997): Founded in 1519, Panama Viejo marks the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas, later destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. Its evocative ruins— invites travelers to explore the ancient cathedral tower overlooking the modern city, convent walls, and colonial foundations—offering visitors a tangible glimpse into Panamá’s early history, then compliment your visit with trips to the Panama Viejo Museum and shopping for local treasure at the Artisanal Center. The city was relocated to what is now Casco Antiguo, a colonial-era district that evolved into a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and entertainment. Tourists can experience both in one day: walking among the quiet stones of Panama Viejo in the morning, exploring the colorful streets and restored buildings of Casco Antiguo in the afternoon. Casco Antiguo is a gastronomic hub in the heart of Panama City, a destination that holds the recognition of Creative Gastronomic City by UNESCO. Wander the charming streets of this colonial-era district and take in the striking mix of neoclassical, Spanish, and French architecture.
Panamá’s Broader UNESCO Recognition
Panamá’s commitment to preserving its heritage extends further:
- Natural Sites: Darien National Park, Coiba National Park, and La Amistad International Park highlight its role as a biodiversity bridge between continents.
- Intangible Cultural Heritage: Celebrated expressions include the Sombrero Pinta’o weaving tradition (2017), Congo cultural rituals (2018), and Corpus Christi dances (2021).
- UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN): Panama City was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2017.
