Located on the fringes of Panamá City, in the district of San Felipe, Casco Antiguo: one of the most charming districts in the entire Republic.

Experience the living, breathing product of Spanish architecture and Caribbean languor? Casco Antiguo (also known as Casco Viejo or San Felipe) is the heart and soul of Panamanian architecture, with its picturesque buildings, red brick cobblestone streets, and age-old religious landmarks. The diverse sense of culture and history could be represented no place better.

Take a leisurely walk where the colonial architecture, wrought-iron railings and ocean breezes are reminiscent of a step back in time. Buildings side-by-side can be over three hundred years apart in age, yet amazingly, nothing seems to clash.

Up until the early parts of this century Casco Antiguo was still hanging on as the cultural and political center of Panamá City, but just barely. As the city center modernized and pulled away from Casco Antiguo, the neighborhoods labyrinth streets became too narrow for the modern world; its buildings lacking that progressive modern touch. By the middle of the century, the Casco slid off the beaten track and the majority of its inhabitants sought newer, shinier things.

But fortunately by the end of the 20th century the destiny of Casco Viejo would change drastically. In the beginning of 1998, Casco Viejo was recognized by UNESCO and the United Nations for Education, Science and Culture as a site of world interest, and as a result, restoration took off.

Today, Casco Antiguo (meaning The Old Compound) radiates historic charm in an uptown setting, while still offering the same appeals of downtown city living: exceptional views, trendy restaurants, and European-style cafés.

Casco Antiguo is the oldest Pacific coastal town in the Americas! This historic neighborhood is filled with enchanting architecture – influenced by the areas early Spanish and French founders. The influence is apparent in the countless Juliet-style balconies, not unlike those found in New Orleans or historic quarters of Europe.

Casco Antiguo was founded on August 15, 1519 as the first European settlement in the Pacific. It was used as the ultimate transport hub for the mountains of gold found in Peru and destined for Spain. In 1671, one thousand two hundred men led by Sir Henry Morgan sailed on the Chagres River to the Casco, which they raped and pillaged. To protect it against future attacks the King of Spain ordered the re-building of Casco Antiguo on another site. Three years later, on a spot 8 km southwest of Panamá La Vieja, the building of (what we know know as) Casco Antiguo started.

The current Casco Antiguo was founded in 1673 and was the first area to withstand subsequent attacks from pirates, effectively securing its title today as the oldest surviving colony in Panamá. Now, this once pirate-stalked area has evolved into one of Panama’s most unique suburbs.

Casco Antiguo is perhaps best known for its cathedrals, museums, government ministries, statues and embassies, however don’t miss the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Theatre, the Canal Museum and the ruins of Santo Domingo and Arco Chato Convent.

Various officials in the Panamanian Government, as well as homeowners and private organizations have worked together both to preserve and revitalize the Casco Viejo area through years of restoration and great future plans. That Casco Antiguo is one of the World Heritage Sites, ensures that sights will be well-preserved.

Conveniently located just minutes from the downtown Panama City, visitors can easily enjoy Panama’s bursting metropolitan scene – from international banking to designer shopping to high end clubs and restaurants: it’s all within a few short minutes (or a dollar cab ride) from Casco Antiguo.