Colón

Colón, Panama's second-largest city, sits at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. This historic port city, founded in 1850, played a crucial role during the California Gold Rush and remains an important center for global trade. In Colón, you can explore colonial-era buildings, watch massive ships navigate the nearby Gatún Locks, or shop at the world's second-largest duty-free port.

The Panama Canal and Gatún Locks

The Gatún Locks, 10 km south of Colón, form an essential part of the Panama Canal system. These locks raise ships from sea level to the height of Gatún Lake, allowing them to cross the isthmus. Visit the Agua Clara Visitor Center to watch ships enter and exit the canal on the Caribbean side. Here, you'll see the newer, larger locks that accommodate bigger vessels, a view not available at the Miraflores Locks near Panama City.

Colón Free Trade Zone

Established in 1948, the Colón Free Trade Zone is the second-largest free trade zone globally, after Hong Kong. While it primarily serves wholesalers rather than individual tourists, the zone has been a major economic driver for Colón. You'll find this walled compound within the city, facilitating the import and re-export of a wide range of goods to other countries.

Architecture and Urban Design of Colón

As you walk through Colón, you'll notice its unique urban layout designed for the tropical climate. The city has long, narrow blocks that capture trade winds, providing natural cooling in the humid Caribbean environment. Colón's buildings showcase various architectural styles, including Gothic Revival, Neoclassical, Art Deco, and early International Style. This mix of designs reflects the city's development over time and its multicultural influences. Look for the distinctive colonnaded street facades, a defining feature of Colón's streetscape.

Safety Considerations for Visitors

Colón has high crime rates, so exercise caution when visiting. It's best to explore the city by taxi or private vehicle rather than on foot. The safest area for tourists is Colón 2000, a shopping plaza and cruise ship port at the northeast end of the city. This area has security personnel and offers restaurants, shops, and other services.

Places of Interest in Colón

Despite its challenges, Colón has several interesting sites. The Columbus Cathedral stands out with its ornate architecture, though it's best viewed from inside a vehicle. Throughout the city, you'll find various monuments, including statues of Christopher Columbus, Christ, and the Virgin Mary near the seawall. Look for the Shell Monument, Aspinwall Monument, and the Monument of the Students' Revolution as you explore.

Transportation Options

You can reach Colón through several routes. The Panama Canal Railway offers a journey between Colón and Panama City, following the canal's path. Regular bus services also connect Colón to Panama City. For international travelers, a ferry service operates twice weekly between Colón and Cartagena, Colombia, with a journey time of about 17 hours.

Accommodation and Dining

Accommodation options in Colón are limited but available. Consider staying at the New Washington Hotel on Calle Bolivar, which provides rooms with views of the bay and includes a casino. For dining, head to the Colón 2000 complex for safe options, including Café Iguana and Subway. In the city center, try local Panamanian dishes at Restaurante Eugenio, a popular spot serving hojaldres (fried bread), chicharrones (fried pork rinds), and beef stews.

Historical Significance of Colón

Colón was established in 1850 as the Atlantic terminal of the Panama Railroad. The city quickly became a key transit point for travelers during the California Gold Rush, providing a faster route between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Throughout its history, Colón has faced several setbacks, including major fires in 1885 and 1915 that destroyed large parts of the city. Despite these challenges, Colón rebuilt and maintained its importance in Panama's economic landscape.