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
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Panama Canal Expansion | The Panama Canal expansion project, completed in 2016, is a marvel of modern engineering, allowing for the passage of larger Neopanamax ships and increasing the country's economic competitiveness. |
| Sports | Baseball Success | Panama has produced several world-class baseball players, including Mariano Rivera, who is the first player from Panama to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. |
| Arts | Pollera Traditional Dress | The traditional Pollera dress is a symbol of Panamanian culture, with intricate embroidery and designs that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage. |
| Development | Economic Growth | Panama has experienced significant economic growth in recent years, with the country's GDP growing by an average of 6% per year from 2005 to 2015. |
| Innovation | City of Knowledge | The City of Knowledge is a hub for innovation and technology, located in Panama City, and is home to several research institutions and companies. |
| Global Contributions | UN Contributions | Panama has made significant contributions to the United Nations, including serving as a member of the UN Security Council and participating in several UN peacekeeping missions. |
| Environment | Soberanía National Park | The Soberanía National Park is a protected area that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and is an important site for scientific research and conservation efforts. |
Cultural Treasures
- The Darien National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, with a wide variety of flora and fauna.
- The Pollera is a traditional dance that is an important part of Panamanian culture, with intricate costumes and choreography.
- The Kuna people are an indigenous group that live in the San Blas Islands, and are known for their vibrant textiles and traditional way of life.
- The Panama Jazz Festival is a popular event that celebrates the country's rich musical heritage, with performances by local and international musicians.
- The Carnival of Panama is a colorful and lively celebration that takes place every year, with parades, music, and dancing.
People & Global Impact
- Ricardo Martinelli, the former President of Panama, was a key figure in the country's economic development and played a crucial role in the expansion of the Panama Canal.
- Erika Ender, a Panamanian singer and songwriter, co-wrote the hit song "Despacito", which became a global phenomenon and helped to promote Panamanian music and culture.
- The Panamanian diaspora has made significant contributions to the cultural and economic development of the United States, with many Panamanians living and working in cities such as New York and Miami.
- Jorge Cham, a Panamanian-American cartoonist, is the creator of the popular comic strip "Piled Higher and Deeper", which is widely read and admired by students and academics around the world.
What Visitors Love
- The Panama Canal is one of the country's most popular tourist attractions, with many visitors taking a boat tour or visiting the Miraflores Locks to see the canal in action.
- The old town of Panama City, also known as Casco Viejo, is a charming and historic neighborhood with many beautiful buildings, restaurants, and shops.
- The beaches of Bocas del Toro are a popular destination for surfers and beach lovers, with crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.
- The jungles of Darien are a great place for hiking and wildlife spotting, with many tour operators offering guided tours and expeditions.
- The local cuisine, which includes dishes such as sancocho and arroz con pollo, is a fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous flavors and is widely praised by visitors.
- The hospitality of the Panamanian people is legendary, with many visitors commenting on the warm and welcoming nature of the locals.
Hidden Gems
- The Chagres National Park is a lesser-known destination that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
- The town of Boquete is a charming and picturesque destination that is popular with expats and retirees, with many amenities and activities such as hiking and coffee tastings.
- The Gulf of Chiriqui is a great place for snorkeling and diving, with many coral reefs and marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins.
- The Fort San Lorenzo, a historic fort that dates back to the 16th century, is a great place to learn about the country's history and culture, with stunning views of the surrounding area.