Portobelo: Heritage Culture and Pirates

Since its foundation in 1597, Portobelo has been a vital port in the history of the continent. Its wall (now destroyed), its narrow streets, and its great forts have seen the passing of the centuries and now invite you to discover the myths and truths of the real pirates of the Caribbean.

Portobelo was a key trading center at the time of the Conquest, as the constant passage of ships and its strategic position quickly put the port in the sights of pirates and corsairs. Fortunately, its large and powerful forts protected the entrance and held out until the very last moment. You will see its ruins and cannons still standing, a reminder of its glory days.

But Portobelo's history and cultural significance lie not only in its buildings. Its resilient Afro people, deeply rooted in their traditions, refuse to forget the struggle of their ancestors and keep the Congo Culture very much alive. In fact, their art, music, dances and costumes played an important role in the history of their liberation.

Visit Portobelo to get to know its people, its past and its rich culture. Discover why this small town in a small corner of the Panamanian Caribbean is a real treasure. Portobelo is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the circuit of forts and batteries of Portobelo and the iconic San Felipe Castle. It also proudly guards the intangible heritage of the Congo Culture. Get to know it by visiting its museum or experience it by joining in with some of their festivities with them.

What to see

The first ruins you will spot as you approach the village are those of the Castillo Santiago de la Gloria and its batteries. The walls, built in 1600, and the cannons facing the sea, invite you to imagine great battles.

Portobelo is the closest Caribbean destination from Panamá City. It is in the north of the country, about 50 km from Colon, Panamá's most important port. From Panamá City it takes about 2 hours to get to the town square by car or you can take a bus from the Albrook transport terminal. Also, from Portobelo you can take a boat to several paradise islands or continue driving to other Caribbean destinations.

Every corner of Portobelo tells a story that has left a deep imprint on the history of Latin America, which today is waiting to be explored by history lovers and travelers who dare to go a little further.

Getting There

Portobelo is the closest Caribbean destination from Panamá City. It is in the north of the country, about 50 km from Colon, Panamá's most important port. From Panamá City it takes about 2 hours to get to the town square by car or you can take a bus from the Albrook transport terminal. Also, from Portobelo you can take a boat to several paradise islands or continue driving to other Caribbean destinations.

Every corner of Portobelo tells a story that has left a deep imprint on the history of Latin America, which today is waiting to be explored by history lovers and travelers who dare to go a little further.