Sometimes you just love a place unconditionally. The mere thought of being there makes you happy and warms your spirit. I have these feelings for Casco Antiguo.

The Old City of Panama isn't actually the oldest one. Yes, we have two old cities here. The first one is called Panamá Viejo and was attacked by pirates around 1670. The city was rebuilt approx. 10 kms to the west and it's what we now call Casco Antiguo, the historic district.

What I like the most of Casco is the eclectic mixture of architectural styles and of course its inhabitants, which make this part of town as colourful as it is. Let's start with the architectural aspect. Unlike other Latin American cities like Quito (Ecuador) and Cartagena  (Colombia), which display exclusively Colonial style, Casco has structures from different periods such as Neoclassical, Colonial, Afro-Caribbean, and even small examples of Art deco. How come? Well, a total of three fires during the 18th century were responsible for the loss of the original buildings. The current appearance of Casco dates from the last decades of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century.

I strongly believe a place takes its special energy from its people. Casco wouldn't be Casco if it weren't for the people who live there. From kids playing soccer without shoes to women selling carne en palito in any corner next to a new club or bar, here locals take the streets and let you know this is their barrio. This situation is changing because of the bunch of development and real state projects in this neighbourhood. That's why many people associate this part of town now with just the trendy spot to go clubbing or drinking. For me Casco is more than that.

 I love Casco simply because whenever I stroll through the streets, I feel free and at peace. It is also the place where I discovered and started cultivating my passion for photography. Just a walk around Casco with my camera renews the way I see the world; it's like a therapy. For these reasons I must say my soul is forever tied to Casco. 

Streets of Casco Antiguo.

Des regards et des instants.

Somewhere in Casco.

Casco life.

Casa Góngora is one of the oldest houses in Panama City. It was built in 1756 and restored in 1998-99. It is the best example of Colonial architecture in Casco Antiguo.

Streets of Casco.

Streets of Casco.

Streets of Casco.

Casco.

Streets of Casco.

Somewhere in Casco.

Somewhere in Casco.

Sunset over Casco with a view of Cerro Ancón.

Nightfall.

Shapes in the water. View of the fish market and Casco.