We shared a taxi with another cruise couple. Our combined goals included sight seeing, and buying a Panama hat, Cuban cigars and colorful belts. Our Taxi driver, Antonio, explained that Panama City consists of two parts: Panama Viejo (Old Panama), founded in 1519, and one of the most important trade routes in the Americas; and modern day Panama City with its displays of architectural styles which reflect the cultural diversity of the country. He also mentioned that Panama Architecture serves as a repository for off-shore money because Panama has favorable banking laws.
Old Town was resplendent with historic buildings and elaborate churches. Statues honoring Simon Bolivar (the rooster) were omnipresent. We saw the square where the Spanish surrendered, the building where Noriega was captured by American troops, and a church with a gold-leafed alter and a pirate laden history.
We toured the modern city seeing the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Theater. Finally we walked along La Bovedas – the sea wall of the Spanish Fort on the point of the peninsula which housed infamous dungeons, currently art galleries restaurants and artisan stalls.
Its was very hot and humid and after five hours of touring we gladly returned to the ship sporting new Panama hats.
