About PA
Location
Panama is a country located in Central America, bordered by Costa Rica to the west, Colombia to the southeast, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south.
Capital
The capital city of Panama is Panama City.
Population
As of the latest estimates, Panama has a population of approximately 4.4 million people.
Area
Panama covers a total land area of about 75,417 square kilometers (29,119 square miles).
Official Language
The official language of Panama is Spanish.
Government
Panama is a presidential representative democratic republic. The President of Panama serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The country has a multi-party political system.
Independence
Panama gained independence from Spain on November 28, 1821, and from Colombia on November 3, 1903.
Currency
The currency of Panama is the Panamanian balboa (PAB), which is equivalent in value to the United States dollar (USD). The USD is also widely used in Panama.
Economy
Panama has a mixed economy with a strong services sector, including banking, commerce, tourism, and logistics. The Panama Canal, a key waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, is a significant contributor to the country's economy. Other important industries include agriculture, manufacturing, and construction.
Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is one of the most important waterways in the world, facilitating global trade by providing a shortcut for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It was completed in 1914 and is considered one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century.
Natural Features
Panama is known for its diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, cloud forests, mountains, and beaches. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, toucans, and jaguars.
Culture
Panama has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its indigenous peoples, Spanish colonial history, and African, Caribbean, and indigenous traditions. Traditional music, dance, cuisine, and festivals are an integral part of Panamanian culture.
Religion
Christianity is the predominant religion in Panama, with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination. Other religious groups include Protestantism and indigenous faiths.
Tourism
Panama is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a range of attractions, including the Panama Canal, tropical beaches, ecotourism adventures, historical sites such as Panama Viejo and Casco Viejo (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites), and vibrant cities like Panama City.
International Relations
Panama maintains diplomatic relations with countries around the world and is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization of American States (OAS), and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
National Items of Panama
Harpy Eagle
The Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) is the national bird of Panama. Known for its impressive size and strength, it symbolizes power, majesty, and the rich biodiversity of Panama’s rainforests.
Holy Ghost Orchid
The Holy Ghost Orchid (Peristeria elata) is the national flower of Panama. This beautiful orchid, also known as the Dove Orchid, symbolizes purity and the country's diverse flora.
Panama Tree (Sterculia apetala)
The Panama Tree, also known as the Sterculia apetala, is the national tree of Panama. It represents the country's rich natural heritage and commitment to conservation.
Pollera
The Pollera is a traditional Panamanian dress, intricately embroidered and worn during festivals and celebrations. It symbolizes Panama’s cultural heritage and artisanal craftsmanship.
Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is one of the most significant engineering feats in the world. It symbolizes Panama's strategic importance in global trade and its rich history.
Arroz con Pollo
Arroz con Pollo is a traditional Panamanian dish made with rice and chicken, often served with vegetables and spices. It represents the country's culinary traditions.
Tamborito
Tamborito is a traditional Panamanian music and dance style characterized by the use of drums and rhythmic clapping. It symbolizes the country's musical heritage and cultural expressions.
Diablico Sucio Masks
Diablico Sucio masks are used in traditional Panamanian folk dances, particularly during Carnival. These colorful and elaborate masks symbolize the country's vibrant folklore and festive spirit.
Balboa
The Balboa is the currency of Panama, named after the Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa. It symbolizes the country’s economic heritage and historical significance.
Panamanian Golden Frog
The Panamanian Golden Frog (Atelopus zeteki) is a cultural symbol of Panama. Though critically endangered, it represents the country's unique wildlife and conservation efforts.
The anthem celebrates Panama's victory, unity, progress, and fraternity, while also emphasizing the importance of leaving behind past conflicts and embracing harmony for the nation's future.
The national anthem of Panama is called "Himno Nacional de Panamá" in Spanish, which translates to "National Anthem of Panama" in English. Here are the lyrics in Spanish along with an English translation:
Alcanzamos por fin la victoria
En el campo feliz de la unión;
Con ardientes fulgores de gloria
Se ilumina la nueva nación.
CORO:
Es preciso cubrir con un velo
Del pasado el calvario y la cruz;
Y que adorne el azul de tu cielo
De concordia la espléndida luz.
El progreso acaricia tus lares.
Al compás de sublime canción,
Ves rugir a tus pies ambos mares
Que dan rumbo a tu noble misión.
CORO:
En tu suelo cubierto de flores,
A los besos del tibio terral,
Terminaron guerreros fragores;
Solo reina el amor fraternal.
Adelante la pica y la pala,
Al trabajo sin más dilación,
Y seremos así prez y gala
De este mundo feraz de Colón.
CORO:
Es preciso cubrir con un velo
Del pasado el calvario y la cruz;
Y que adorne el azul de tu cielo
De concordia la espléndida luz.
We finally reached victory
In the happy field of union;
With ardent glows of glory
The new nation is illuminated.
CHORUS:
It is necessary to cover with a veil
The Calvary and the cross of the past;
And may the splendid light of harmony
Adorn the blue of your sky.
Progress caresses your hearths.
To the rhythm of a sublime song,
You see both seas roar at your feet
That give direction to your noble mission.
CHORUS:
On your soil covered with flowers,
With the kisses of the warm land breeze,
Warriors' roars have ended;
Only fraternal love reigns.
Forward with pickaxe and shovel,
To work without further delay,
And we shall thus be the pride and glory
Of this fertile world of Columbus.
CHORUS:
It is necessary to cover with a veil
The Calvary and the cross of the past;
And may the splendid light of harmony
Adorn the blue of your sky.
