Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Panama
CapitalPanama City
Population4.1 million
Area75,417 km² (29,119 sq mi)
LanguagesSpanish
CurrencyPanamanian balboa (B/.), United States dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC-05:00
RegionAmericas / Central America
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Quick Facts

Official NameRepublic of Panama
CapitalPanama City
Population4.4 million
LanguagesSpanish
CurrencyPAB
Governmentsovereign
ContinentNorth America
ISO CodePA
Calling Code+507
Drives Onright
Time ZoneUTC-5

What Is Panama?

Panama is a sovereign country located in North America, connecting the continents of North and South America. It shares borders with Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east. Panama is known for its strategic geographic position, as it is home to the Panama Canal, one of the most important waterways in the world, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. The country's unique position has made it a significant hub for international trade and commerce.

Panama is a country with a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its indigenous, Spanish, and African roots. The capital city, Panama City, is a modern metropolis with a mix of colonial and contemporary architecture. The country's natural beauty is characterized by its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and beautiful coastlines along the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Panama is also known for its vibrant culture, with a blend of traditional and modern music, dance, and art.

The country's economy is driven by its service sector, with a strong focus on finance, logistics, and tourism. Panama is also a popular destination for ecotourism, with many national parks and wildlife reserves that offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the country's diverse natural beauty. With its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, Panama is a fascinating country to explore and discover.

Key History

  1. 1501 - The Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa becomes the first European to see the Pacific Ocean from the New World, marking the beginning of Spanish colonization in Panama.
  2. 1821 - Panama gains independence from Spain and joins the Gran Colombia, a short-lived republic that also included present-day Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.
  3. 1903 - Panama declares its independence from Colombia and becomes a sovereign nation, with the support of the United States.
  4. 1914 - The Panama Canal is completed, revolutionizing global trade and commerce by connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
  5. 1989 - The United States invades Panama to overthrow the government of General Manuel Noriega, marking a significant turning point in the country's history.
  6. 1999 - The Panama Canal is transferred from US to Panamanian control, marking a new era of independence and self-governance for the country.
  7. 2014 - Panama celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal, a major milestone in the country's history and a testament to its enduring importance in global trade and commerce.

What Makes Panama Unique

  • Panama is home to the Panama Canal, one of the most important waterways in the world, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
  • The country has a unique cultural heritage, with a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences.
  • Panama is a major hub for international trade and commerce, with a strong focus on finance, logistics, and tourism.
  • The country is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with many national parks and wildlife reserves that offer opportunities for ecotourism.
  • Panama has a modern and efficient infrastructure, with a well-developed transportation system and a high standard of living.

Quick Summary

Panama is a sovereign country in North America, known for its strategic geographic position, rich cultural heritage, and unique blend of natural beauty and modern infrastructure, making it a fascinating destination for tourists, businessmen, and nature lovers alike.