Hidden Secrets: Intriguing Panama Facts You Never Knew About!
Panama, a Central American country known for the Panama Canal, has an awe-inspiring history and an energetic culture. Below are some of the lesser-known facts about this tropical gem that you probably never knew about.
1. The Birthplace of the Landfill Free City
Panama City, the nation’s capital, has earned the global recognition of “The First Landfill Free City.” The country has strictly controlled waste management, and Panama City is 100% free of landfills. Instead, waste is turned into energy, recycled, or disposed of in other sustainable ways.
Image: A panoramic view of Panama City | Image Source: WorldAtlas.com
2. The Most Visited Wildlife Refuge
The Baru Volcano National Park in Panama is the most visited wildlife refuge not only in the country but in Central America. The 26,001-hectare park is home to more than 450 species of plants, 350 species of birds, and varied other fauna. The summit of the Baru volcano at 3,475 feet is the highest point in Panama and encompasses a unique biodiversity.
3. The Birthplace of Dinosaurs
During a family trip to Panama, most tourists never knew that what looked like a few bone fragments could be the oldest vertebrate fossils found in Panama. The almost 120-million years old Scalopodon fossils were discovered near the town of El Valle de Anton by a 7-year-old boy, breaking records as the oldest vertebrate fossils discovered in Panama.
4. Archaeological Wonders And Ancient Cultural Treasures
Panama’s Panamanian territory played a vital role in the migration of prehistoric animals and early human civilizations. Here, archaeologists have explored prehistoric tools, hematite mines, warehouses, and much more.
5. The Tale of Old Man of the Andes
An 18-ft statue of the Old Man of the Andes, also known as the "Diego", is standing tall in Casco Viejo district of Panama City. It has become a cultural and historical icon and an added flower bed around the statue, made out of stones brought from different countries.
FAQs
Q1: What are some popular attractions in Panama City?
Apart from the famous Panama Canal and the equally famous Miraflores Locks, the city is home to many world-class museums, such as the Panama Canal Museum and Old Quarter Museum (Museo de la Casa de Alcántara), and the Biomuseo, designed by famed architect Frank Gehry.
Q2: What’s the climate in Panama?
The weather in Panama is tropical with an average temperature of 82°F (28°C). It is hot and humid throughout the year with heavy rainfall occurring from May to November.
Q3: What cuisine can I expect in Panama?
Panamanian cuisine boasts a beautiful blend of cultural influences – indigenous, African, Spanish, and more. Popular foods include ceviche, sancocho (a hearty stew), and tamale.
Q4: What language do Panamanians speak?
Panamanians speak Spanish as their official and primary language. English is also widely spoken in most areas, particularly in the tourism sector.
Q5: What currency is used in Panama?
Panama uses the United States Dollar (USD) as an official and legal tender.
Stepping into Panama allows one to explore not only its fascinating modernity but also the rich history it holds. From its being a landfill-free city to being home to the country with the oldest vertebrate fossils, there is much more to the country than meets the eye. These facts only whet the curiosity to discover Panama and its culture in more depth.
