The capital of Panama is a modern, thriving commercial center stretching 8km (5mi) along the Pacific coast from the ruins of Panamá Viejo to the edge of the Panama Canal. Casco Antiguo is an area of decaying colonial grandeur, striking architecture, peeling paint and decrepit balconies.
Attractions include the 17th-century Metropolitan Church, the Interoceanic Canal Museum of Panama, the Plaza de Bolívar, the presidential palace, the History Museum of Panama and the Spanish 16th-century sea wall. Vía España's banking district is the complete opposite to this yesteryear charm.
© 2005 Lonely Planet Publications