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The archaeological site of the ruins of the original city of Panama that was sacked by the pirate Henry Morgan in the 1600s. The city was later moved to Casco Viejo. Today Panama Viejo is home to one of Panama's national parks with the buildings left in unrestored states. It is well worth the visit but read the safety warnings and ask park employees about where it is safe to visit as the park is surrounded outside by one of the city's dangerous areas. Together with the old town Casco Viejo, the site of Panamá Viejo is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. They are both listed a second time as part of the site The Colonial Transisthmian Route of Panamá.
Panamá Viejo, also known as Panamá la Vieja, is the remaining part of the original Panama City, the former capital of Panama, which was destroyed in 1671 by the Welsh privateer Henry Morgan. It is located in the suburbs of the current capital. Together with the historical district of Panamá, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.
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The second highest peak in the city. A few short easy trails and a viewpoint at the top looking over the city and to the Miraflores locks. Butterflies, turtles, and coatis are easy to see. Agoutis, sloths, and monkeys live there as well. Drinks available at the main entrance, bathrooms and both entrances.
Parque Natural Metropolitano
This park is a nature reserve very close to the city and offers well-maintained hiking paths and a small visitors center. One of the trails leads up a hill and from there, you have great views over the skyline of Panama City. Register and pay first at the visitors center, where there are also toilets and drinking water fountains to refill your bottles.
Cerro Ancón or Ancon Hill is the tallest peak in Panama City. There is a fairly well-trafficked paved road heading to the summit that is used by local hikers, ambitious cyclists and a few tourists. It's only about a 15-minute walk from the trail head near Mi Pueblito. The summit has viewpoints looking out at Casco Viejo, the new town and the canal.
The pretty deserted museum (entrance free) on the slopes of Cerro Ancon showcases the different ethnicities of Panama. There are several artisans producing curios. The museum is across the highway from El Chorrillo neighborhood, which has experienced some crime targeting tourists in the past, so be mindful.