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Plaza Francia
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Historical site
Plaza Francia (French Plaza) is a monumental public space located at the southeastern tip of Casco Antiguo, built to honor the French effort to construct the Panama Canal in the late 19th century. The plaza features a central obelisk topped by a Gallic rooster and a series of plaques that tell the story of the tens of thousands of workers who died from tropical diseases during the project. It is surrounded by the Bovedas (the old seawall) and the French Embassy. The plaza is one of the most beautiful spots in the city, offering a peaceful atmosphere and striking views of the Bay of Panama and the Bridge of the Americas. It serves as a reminder of the global nature of Panama's history and the immense human sacrifice required to unite the two oceans.
- Location: Panama
- Top sights: Panama Canal Museum · Museum of History of Panama · Casco Viejo, Panama
- Nearby: Chilibre (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 9 | 18 | 107 | 245 | 253 | 204 | 220 | 245 | 260 | 248 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Plaza Francia is a public square in Casco Viejo, Panama City, freely accessible. You can view statues and monuments honoring the French canal builders.
Typical hours
The square is open 24/7. Nearby buildings like the Canal Museum typically have daytime opening hours, often with a lunch break.
Photography
Photography on the square and of the monuments is allowed. For interior shots of the museum, ask on-site about rules.
Time needed
A visit to the square takes about 15 to 30 minutes. If you also visit the museum, allow an additional hour.
Combine with
Combine the square with a stroll through Casco Viejo, the old town of Panama City, with its many churches and squares. The Panama Canal is also nearby.
Getting there
The square is located in historic Casco Viejo, easily walkable from other attractions. Taxis and Uber are available throughout the city.
Insider tip
Visit the square in the late afternoon to enjoy golden light on the architecture. Look for the monument to the French workers - very photogenic.
Geography
Facts
- Built in the 1920s on the site of the old city's main bastion.
- Honors Ferdinand de Lesseps and the French engineers.
- The central obelisk is 22 meters high.
- Features a semi-circular arcade with busts of key French figures.
- Overlooks the Bovedas, which were once a colonial prison.
- A popular spot for traditional shaved ice (raspao) vendors.
- Strategic location for viewing the Pacific entrance of the canal.
- Hosts various cultural festivals and musical events.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Plaza Francia (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the historical background of Plaza Francia?
The square honors French efforts during the construction of the Panama Canal.
Are there souvenir shops there?
Yes, you can find small local craft stalls in the immediate vicinity.
Is the square family-friendly?
Yes, it is an open area suitable for walks with children.
Is there a nice view from there?
Yes, from the square, you look directly over the Bay of Panama.
When is it most crowded there?
Weekends and holidays are the busiest times here.
Plaza Francia: where is it located?
Plaza Francia is located in Panama.
Plaza Francia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Panama Canal Museum, Museum of History of Panama, Casco Viejo, Panama.
Plaza Francia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Plaza Francia: why is it worth visiting?
Plaza Francia (French Plaza) is a monumental public space located at the southeastern tip of Casco Antiguo, built to honor the French effort to construct the Panama Canal in the late 19th century.
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A large district in the north of Panama City.
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A historic district at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal.
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History & landmarks
Vasco Núñez de Balboa Statue
A statue honoring the discoverer of the Pacific.
Panama Handicraft Center
A place for traditional Panamanian crafts.
Balboa Monument
A monument dedicated to the explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa.
Parque Urracá
A small but nice city park in Panama City.
Fuerte Amador
A former US military base at the entrance of the canal.
Palacio de las Garzas
The official residence of the President of Panama.
National Theatre of Panama
The country's most important opera and theatre building.
Iglesia de San José
A church in Casco Viejo, famous for its golden altar.
More places
Las Bóvedas
Historic vaults on the city wall of Casco Viejo.
Museum of History of Panama
Documents the history of the country from colonialism to the present day.
Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús
Former Jesuit church in the old town of Panama, Casco Viejo.
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís
Historic Franciscan church in Casco Viejo, Panama City.
Interoceanic Canal Museum
Important museum in Casco Viejo about the history of the Panama Canal.
Ruins of the Santo Domingo Convent
Remains of the Dominican convent in Casco Viejo, Panama City.
Arco Chato
A famous flat brick arch in the ruins of the Santo Domingo convent.
Museum of Colonial Religious Art
Houses works of art from the Spanish colonial period in Panama.