Without hesitating one iota, I would say that the Casco Viejo is the soul of Panama City. It’s where the country was born. It’s here where the Presidency of the Republic is located and where the official ceremonies of the nation are carried out. This is where the Metropolitan Cathedral displays its solemn structure. Casco Viejo and the Republic of Panama are one. When you walk through the narrow streets covered with red bricks, you can feel History resonating inside the walls of its old buildings. This is where “the walls come down and the soul comes into view.”
Below are several scenes of Casco Viejo which reminds us of how it was when our country was young, vigorous and full of hope for a better future. We’ve come a long way, but there’s still much to be done. Here we go.
Picture of an old wooden building at Casco Viejo. Soon it will be purchased and modernized adding prestige and charm to the area. Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
An iconic site in Panama City, known as "La Bajada del Ñopo" or "Calle de la Chorrera". Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
This famous street is located at 12th Street East between Avenida B y Avenida Norte. A charismatic man called, don José López, who was deeply loved in this section of the city was called “El Ñopo” which means white man with blonde hair—fulo.
Picture of a group of early birds at el Casco Viejo one early Sunday morning. Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
Picture of the old shell of Panama City next to where the Cinta Costera was recently extended. This area is scheduled to be renovated as well as the rest of the Casco Viejo. Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
Picture of one of the oldest bars in Panama City---La Interiorana. It's located at The Terraplén which is being modernized with a brand new highway known as the Cinta Costera. Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
Picture of the exterior of another famous bar at El Terraplén. It was the favorite spot for the sailors who sailed to Panama City from the Province of Darién. The name of the bar is "La Bocatoreña". Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
Another view of the picturesque bar called "La Bocatoreña" at The Terraplén next to the Cinta Costera. Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
