Panama’s diverse Indian culture and pivotal role in providing transoceanic passage between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, has lead to the creation of several museums. For those visiting Panama, these museums provide visitors with insight and an interesting perspective of the country’s past and contributions. Below we have listed the three most frequented museums.
Google Map - Afro-Antillian Museum
Housed in a small, cottage-like building, just across from the Metro train station in "5 de Mayo," the Afto-Antillian Museum focuses primarily on the influences of Panama's West Indian community and their contributions during the construction of the Panama Canal.
Location: Calle 24 este y Ave. Justo Arosemena
Hours: 8:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Tuesday–Saturday
Google Map - Biodiversity Museum
Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, and built along Panama City's Amador Causeway, the 43,056 sq. ft. (4,000 sq. m.) Biodiversity Museum is comprised of several exhibition galleries, a large public atrium, two immense fish tanks, and numerous interactive presentations. While short on physical exhibits, the museum provides visitors with plenty of historic information relating to the isthmus' formation and how it contributed to the creation of Panama and the entire Central American region. As well, the museum closely examines the region's initial inhabitants and the vast array of animal life, that, at one time, inhabited the region. Visit their web site for more information.
Google Map - Panama Canal Museum
Located in front of Plaza Cathedral, Casco Antiguo, the Panama Canal Museum offers visitors an outstanding exhibit of Panama’s historic role acting as an inter-oceanic route from pre-historic times to the building of the Panama Canal. There's a wealth of information regarding the construction of the canal, including artifacts, Guides can be hired, but you must call and make a reservation in advance. Visit their web site for more information.