PANAMA CITY
CULTURE
Dubbed one of the modern wonders of the world , the Panama Canal is a must-see . Visitors are welcomed at Miraflores Locks , the oldest of the three locks now in use . Via engaging exhibits and an outdoor viewing platform , you can delve into the operational intricacies of this feat of engineering that allows ships to travel uphill across the isthmus , and smooths out the imbalance in sea level between the canal ’ s Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea entrances .
Like a thread through the proverbial eye of the needle , megaships , cruise liners and personal watercraft rise and fall with varying water levels to pass through an opening only 111-feet wide . For a comprehensive experience , consider a full-day Canal Zone tour that examines the breadth of operations and landmarks of the area .
Situated on the Amador Causeway , at the Pacific entrance to the canal , the Biomuseo is a Smithsonian-affiliate museum designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry , who intended it to illustrate the geological and environmental narrative of the area over millions of years in a blend of art and science . With Gehry-signature metal panels covering the exterior , the colourful building is hard to miss .
The historic district of Casco Viejo , also part of the UNESCO site , is a captivating blend of Spanish and French influences , with wrought-iron balconies overlooking cobblestone streets and timeworn churches . According to legend , Iglesia San José ’ s golden altar was painted black by a quick-witted priest in order to save it from Henry Morgan ’ s band of pillagers . Don ’ t forget to pause for a photo under the stone archway at nearby Arco Chato , the remains of a church built
From left : The Bridge of the Americas crosses the Panama Canal ; seabass ceviche
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