Colon Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Colon, Panama

Colon Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Colon

Col贸n is one of the most fascinating places to explore in Panama鈥攁 city where history, culture, and nature intertwine in unexpected ways. Founded in 1850, it quickly became the Atlantic gateway for gold rush travelers headed to California. Later renamed to honor Columbus, the city grew on the swampy ground of Manzanillo Island, battling disease and harsh conditions from the start.

Its fortunes shifted during the construction of the Panama Canal, when U.S.-led sanitation efforts transformed Col贸n into a key Atlantic port. But the road wasn鈥檛 smooth. The city was nearly destroyed during the Burning of Col贸n in 1885, an episode of the Colombian Civil War. Yet it bounced back, and in 1948, the creation of the Col贸n Free Trade Zone gave it new life as a global commercial hub鈥攖oday one of the largest duty-free zones in the world.

Beyond trade and transit, Col贸n is a cultural crossroads. Its population includes West Indian, South Asian, and Arab communities, each contributing to the city鈥檚 identity. Nature also leaves a bold imprint鈥攋ust beyond the city limits, thick jungles echo with birdsong and howler monkeys, while nearby beaches and islands feel like something out of a dream.

In the city center, you鈥檒l find key landmarks that anchor the city鈥檚 story. November 5th Park honors the moment in 1903 when Col贸n played a decisive role in securing Panama鈥檚 independence from Colombia. Nearby, the Cathedral reflects the city鈥檚 Catholic heritage, while Christ Episcopal Church鈥攂uilt in the 19th century鈥攕tands as the oldest building in town and the first Gothic Revival structure in Central America.

Down by the waterfront, the Centennial Walk provides a breezy promenade along the coast, dotted with monuments and harbor views, honoring a century of Panamanian independence. Meanwhile, the New Washington Hotel once hosted canal-zone dignitaries and American officials, and still carries echoes of that era. Fort Lesseps, though partially in ruins, speaks to earlier French ambitions and later U.S. military presence, underscoring Col贸n鈥檚 long-standing strategic role. And for a modern twist, the Col贸n 2000 Malls showcase the city鈥檚 contemporary side鈥攚ith shops, restaurants, and cruise terminals that point toward its future.

To dive deeper into Col贸n鈥檚 story鈥攑ast and present鈥攆ollow our self-guided walking tour through these sites and more. Walk at your own pace, take in the contrast, and let the city reveal itself, one stop at a time.

How it works: Download the app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walks in Colon

Guide Name: Colon Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Panama » Colon (See other walking tours in Colon)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Author: nataly
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:

Colon 2000 Malls
Parque 5 de Noviembre (November 5th Park)
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepci贸n (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception)
Fort Lesseps
New Washington Hotel
Iglesia de Cristo a Orillas del Mar (Christ Episcopal Church)
Estatua de Jes煤s (Statue of Jesus)
Paseo del Centenario (The Centennial Walk)

1) Colon 2000 Malls (must see)

Conveniently located for cruise passengers arriving in Col贸n, the Col贸n 2000 Duty Free Mall is the first shopping destination to explore. This expansive shopping center features a sleek, modern architectural design, characterized by wide glass facades and spacious walkways that allow for natural light to filter through. Its contemporary layout not only enhances the shopping experience but also provides an inviting space for visitors to leisurely browse its many shops.

Inside, the mall boasts a wide variety of retail outlets, offering luxury goods, electronics, perfumes, and local handicrafts鈥攁ll at tax-free prices. As you navigate through the shops, you'll discover both international brands and local artisans, providing a diverse shopping experience that caters to various tastes and budgets. Aside from shopping, Col贸n 2000 Duty Free Mall serves as a social hub where visitors can enjoy dining options ranging from quick snacks to full-service restaurants.

Further along the path, you鈥檒l encounter Col贸n 2000 Mall, another vibrant shopping center that attracts both locals and tourists alike. With over a hundred shops to explore, it is the ideal spot for those looking to indulge in a little retail therapy. Visitors can find everything from fashion and electronics to souvenirs that capture the essence of Panama. The mall also features a variety of dining options, from fast-food chains to local eateries, making it easy to take a break and enjoy a delicious meal.

Entertainment is also a key feature of Col贸n 2000 Mall. Families can enjoy a range of activities, including a movie theater showcasing the latest films, making it a perfect spot for a fun day out. Regular events and promotions keep the atmosphere lively, offering something new for visitors on every trip.

2) Parque 5 de Noviembre (November 5th Park)

The Park was inaugurated on November 5, 1942, during the presidency of Ricardo Adolfo De La Guardia. The park's creation symbolized the city's resilience and rebirth following the devastating fire of April 1940, which consumed 22 city blocks. Its establishment was part of a broader effort to rejuvenate Col贸n, blending architectural elegance with historical significance.

Designed by local architect Don Luis Antonio Cruz, November 5th Park showcases a Spanish-inspired aesthetic influenced by the styles of Granada and Madrid. The park is graced with lush ornamental vegetation, including fan-shaped palm trees that line its pathways, adding to its serene ambiance. At its heart lies a central fountain with a glazed ceramic waterwheel, which was activated in 1945 after World War II security restrictions were lifted. A circular balustrade frames the park, adorned with colonial lamps imported from North America, while molded benches with backrests provide comfortable spots to rest and enjoy the surroundings. The park's iconic bandshell, used for cultural concerts, has become a national symbol of public spaces in Panama.

One of the most distinctive features of November 5th Park is its stylized pedestal of the National Flagpole, which is crowned with an eagle, symbolizing strength and pride. In the background, the white Municipal Palace, inaugurated in 1927, adds a touch of historical grandeur, serving as a reminder of the city鈥檚 enduring spirit. Since its creation, the park has remained a focal point for community gatherings, public celebrations, and a testament to Col贸n's architectural and cultural heritage.

3) Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepci贸n (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception)

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, also known as Col贸n Cathedral, stands as an iconic symbol of faith and architectural beauty in the city of Col贸n. Serving as the seat of the Diocese of Col贸n-Kuna Yala since its establishment on June 13, 1997, the cathedral is a significant religious center for the local Catholic community.

The cathedral鈥檚 construction journey began on September 1, 1929, with its foundation stone laid under the guidance of Municipal Architect Octavio Ja茅n and German engineer Guillermo Wors. The architectural design showcases a Gothic Revival style, characterized by intricate flying buttresses, spires, triforiums, and exterior pinnacles. Its layout follows a Latin cross plan, with a spacious central nave and transept, adorned with polygonal columns and classically inspired capitals featuring lush vegetal motifs.

The cathedral's aesthetic appeal is further elevated by its twin towers, gracefully adorned and topped with discreet spires reminiscent of medieval European cathedrals. Inside, fourteen beautifully crafted polychrome stained-glass windows, produced by the Valdez y G贸mez firm in Havana, bathe the interior in colorful light. Although its original organ no longer exists, the cathedral remains a testament to artistic elegance and spiritual devotion. Considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Central America, it is currently undergoing restoration, supported by the Col贸n Free Trade Zone, to restore its splendor and preserve its legacy for generations to come.

4) Fort Lesseps

Fort Lesseps was a small U.S. Army Coast Artillery Corps fort located at the northern tip of Col贸n, named after the French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps, who oversaw the construction of the Suez Canal. Built to safeguard the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal, the fort was established in 1913 and remained in operation until 1955. The fort's primary defense structure was Battery Morgan, which housed two six-inch guns strategically positioned across from the Hotel Washington. This small yet significant military installation played an important role in protecting the Canal and surrounding areas during its active years.

The fort's layout was relatively simple, consisting of a spur from the nearby railyards leading to its dock, where several key structures were located. The administration building and barracks were situated near the dock, with five officers' houses and a theater located a short distance away. Between the gun batteries and the hotel, a sea-level swimming pool added an element of leisure to the otherwise utilitarian military complex. The fort was not just a place for defense but also a living space for the officers and soldiers stationed there.

Fort Lesseps served as a strategic military post during a time when Panama's security was of great importance, especially in relation to the Panama Canal, which was a vital global trade route. Its relatively modest size belied its strategic value, as it was an integral part of the U.S. military presence in the region. Over the years, the fort's functions evolved, and by 1955, it was no longer needed and was abandoned.

Today, the site of Fort Lesseps has taken on new purposes, with the land now used for other developments. The historical significance of the fort, however, remains as part of Panama's military and colonial past, especially in relation to the U.S. presence during the early 20th century.

5) New Washington Hotel

The New Washington Hotel stands prominently at the edge of the peninsula that defines the city, nestled between two small high-rises. Its coral-colored fa莽ade is a testament to its grandeur and storied past. The original hotel on this site was opened in 1870 by the Panama Railway Company to accommodate workers. However, with the growing influx of tourists drawn by the Panama Canal, demand for accommodations surged. In response, the Railroad Company relocated the initial hotel and unveiled the upscale New Washington Hotel on March 23, 1913. At its peak, it was considered one of the finest hotels in the Americas, rivaling luxury establishments throughout the New World.

Architecturally, the New Washington Hotel is an exquisite example of Spanish Mission style, adapted beautifully to the tropical climate. Built with concrete and cement blocks, its design prioritizes coolness and comfort, ensuring a pleasant stay even in Panama's warmest weather. The hotel鈥檚 public spaces are expansive and elegantly furnished, including the main lobby, dining rooms, ladies' parlor, and a grand ballroom that opens on three sides to Caribbean breezes. The ballroom, adorned with gilt and heavy crystal chandeliers, has been a traditional venue for lavish parties, weddings, and social gatherings. Its open-air swimming pool, once hailed as the largest hotel pool in the world, provided guests with a luxurious escape just steps from the surf.

Today, the New Washington Hotel is managed by a consortium of Arab investors and has been transformed into a casino, with a modern condominium added next door at the site of the former Fort De Lesseps. Despite these changes, the hotel remains a social hub in Col贸n, drawing visitors for both leisure and events. Its dining rooms continue to be a favorite among locals and tourists alike, particularly for specialties like plank steak crafted by the celebrated chef Herbert Thompson.

6) Iglesia de Cristo a Orillas del Mar (Christ Episcopal Church)

Christ Episcopal Church, located just meters from the bay in Col贸n, is a historic and architectural gem, often referred to as "Christ Church by the Sea" due to its proximity to the water. Built between 1863 and 1864, it was designed by renowned New York architect James Renwick, who was known for his work on church buildings in the United States. The church's design follows the Victorian Gothic style, and it is constructed with local stones from the Boh铆o Soldado quarry. This iconic structure is not only a religious site but also a popular tourist attraction in Col贸n, drawing visitors from both the local community and abroad.

Throughout its history, the church has witnessed significant events, including the destruction of Col贸n by fire in 1885. Christ Episcopal Church was one of the few buildings that survived the blaze and was repurposed as a barracks, hospital, and shelter for the victims of the fire. It resumed its religious services later that year, continuing its role as a cornerstone of the community. Over the years, it has been home to several notable reverends, including the Reverend Edward J. Cooper, who served as the pastor for over three decades.

In 1965, Christ Episcopal Church was declared a Municipal Historical Monument by the Col贸n Municipal Council, recognizing its importance not only as a religious institution but also as the oldest building in Col贸n and the first significant Gothic Revival project in Central America.

7) Estatua de Jes煤s (Statue of Jesus)

The Statue of Jesus is a striking religious monument located at the entrance to the Panama Canal in Col贸n. Completed in 1995, the sculpture was created by Panamanian artist Edgar Urriola Espino and stands as a symbol of faith and reverence. Sponsored by the Archdiocese and the Municipality of Col贸n, as well as Monsignor Carlos Mar铆a Aris and Mayor Alcibiades Gonz谩les, this imposing statue has become a notable landmark in the region.

Standing at an impressive 25 feet tall, the statue is supported by a pedestal that rises 8 feet above a 2-foot step, making the overall height of the monument even more commanding. Constructed from a mixture of granite paste, marble, and white cement, the statue鈥檚 durability and elegance are matched by its spiritual significance. Positioned at such a prominent location, the Statue of Jesus serves as a welcoming figure for those entering the Canal, offering a sense of peace and hope to visitors and residents alike.

The statue鈥檚 design evokes the classic imagery of Christ the Redeemer, offering a powerful representation of the Christian faith. Over the years, it has become an important religious and cultural symbol for the people of Col贸n and Panama as a whole. Today, the Statue of Jesus continues to be a beacon for both locals and tourists, symbolizing peace and unity at the gateway to one of the most important waterways in the world.

8) Paseo del Centenario (The Centennial Walk) (must see)

The Centennial Walk, inaugurated on May 1, 1926, stands as a historic promenade in Col贸n. Its name commemorates the centennial of the Amphictyonic Congress convened by Sim贸n Bol铆var in the Isthmus of Panama, an event that marked a significant effort toward Latin American unity.

The first sections of the Centennial Walk are distinguished by rows of towering royal palms, surrounded by lush greenery, laurels imported from India, and vibrant hibiscus flowers. These carefully manicured gardens create a serene atmosphere, inviting locals and visitors alike to stroll along its paths. Further down the promenade, ficus trees planted in 1940 line the walk, serving not only as natural shade but also as protectors during the Great Fire of April 13, 1940, which devastated parts of Col贸n.

One of the most iconic landmarks along the Centennial Walk is the Columbus Monument, a bronze sculpture situated between 2nd and 3rd streets. Inaugurated in 1930, the statue, which depicts Christopher Columbus embracing a native woman symbolizing the American continent, is considered one of the most artistically valuable in Panama. Originally commissioned by Empress Eugenia de Montijo of France in 1864, it was intended for Veracruz, Mexico, but was instead sent to Col贸n. Today, it stands proudly on the Centennial Walk, connecting the historic promenade with Panama's colonial past and the aspirations for unity championed by Bol铆var.