Introducing The Interior
Between Chiriquí and Panama City, the regions of Veraguas, Península de Azuero and Coclé – all part of the interior – have long been overshadowed by the flash of the capital, the tranquility of the Chiriquí highlands and the Caribbean lure of Bocas del Toro. You may be one of the few tourists around, but if it’s Panama’s heart and soul you seek, this may be the best place to look. Here, some of Panama’s friendliest citizens welcome visitors to their colonial towns and hillside villages. Founded by the Spanish four centuries ago, many settlements are not much bigger now than they were then, and the majority still retain their original, well-preserved colonial churches.
Due to the relative isolation of the region, some of Panama’s oldest traditions live on here, and old-world festivals straight out of Spain occur throughout the year. Today the region has an economy primarily based on agriculture, though the interior is known throughout Panama for its exquisite handicrafts. The region is also home to Santa Catalina, which is regarded as one of the best surf destinations in Central America, as well as the scenic mountain towns of Santa Fé and El Valle.
Last updated: Nov 3, 2008
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