The Shaping of Panama
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Port
Fuerte Amador, Panama
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$89.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Panama is a country whose name is utterly inseparable from the image of the canal that changed the world -- considered by many to be the Eighth Wonder of the World. Yet the 'other' Panama is just as interesting, with a fantastic history of glory and tragedy that has shaped this country that was once known as the Pearl of the Pacific.
Old Panama -- the original European settlement -- was founded in 1519 and destroyed by the infamous Welsh Captain Henry Morgan in 1671. This scenic, get-acquainted excursion takes you past the ruins of the churches and convents, colonial palaces, bridges and military buildings that attest to the glorious past of Old Panama.
En route along the coastline to El Casco Antiguo and the narrow streets of Colonial Panama, you'll hear tales of the extraordinary gallantry and shocking piracy that kept the inhabitants in a constant state of high alert.
Take a leisurely 45-minute guided walk to appreciate the city's many facets as you view its unique architecture, influenced by a beautiful blend of French, Spanish and Italian styles. A number of old houses and other senescent monuments can be found in the downtown district.
You will return to the ship with a wonderful overview of intriguing Panama, old and new.
Notes:
You can take photos of the National Theatre, the cathedral and the Church of the Golden Altar (left intact by Morgan when he sacked Panama City) from the coach.