Plaza de Francia (Las Bóvedas) - Image 1
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Plaza de Francia Las Bóvedas

4.6
·491k reviews·Panamá, Panama

Explore 18th-century prison vaults and a historic plaza with an obelisk, offering stunning Panama City views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Plaza de Francia (Las Bóvedas) - Image 1

Plaza de Francia Las Bóvedas

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 18th-century prison vaults and a historic plaza with an obelisk, offering stunning Panama City views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Step back in time at the Bóvedas and soak in breathtaking cityscapes from Plaza de Francia."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Casco Viejo

Plaza de Francia is part of the historic Casco Viejo. Explore the charming streets before or after your visit!

💧 Stay Hydrated

Panama can be hot and humid. Carry water, especially when exploring the open plaza and vaults. :water_wave:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bóvedas Vaults

The Bóvedas Vaults

Underneath Plaza de Francia

Explore the historic 8th-century arches, once prisons and storage, now a unique architectural marvel.

Plaza de Francia Obelisk

Plaza de Francia Obelisk

Center of Plaza de Francia

A striking 1920s obelisk stands tall, commemorating French efforts to build the Panama Canal.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Edge of Plaza de Francia

Enjoy breathtaking views of Panama City's skyline and the Pacific Ocean from this elevated vantage point.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key

While Plaza de Francia Las Bóvedas is an open public space, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the historical architecture. Early mornings or late afternoons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Respect the History

These 8th-century vaults have a somber past as former prisons. Approach the site with respect for its history. While it's a popular spot for photos, remember its significance.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Advice on visiting the Panama Canal – Tickets and nearby places to see?

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Casco Viejo

Plaza de Francia is part of the historic Casco Viejo. Explore the charming streets before or after your visit! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Panama can be hot and humid. Carry water, especially when exploring the open plaza and vaults. :water_wave:

reddit.com

Tips para hacer turismo en Ciudad de Panamá

📸 Capture the History

The architecture is stunning. Bring your camera for unique shots of the arches and obelisk. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing some walking around the plaza and potentially uneven surfaces in the vaults. :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Casco Viejo

Plaza de Francia is part of the historic Casco Viejo. Explore the charming streets before or after your visit! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Panama can be hot and humid. Carry water, especially when exploring the open plaza and vaults. :water_wave:

📸 Capture the History

The architecture is stunning. Bring your camera for unique shots of the arches and obelisk. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing some walking around the plaza and potentially uneven surfaces in the vaults. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Plaza de Francia Las Bóvedas for its historical significance, unique architecture, and stunning city views. The Bóvedas offer a cool, atmospheric escape, while the plaza provides a beautiful vantage point. Some find the accessibility within the vaults limited, and it can get warm during peak hours.

What People Like

Historic Bóvedas architecture
Panoramic city views
Atmospheric historical site

What People Dislike

Can get hot
Limited vault access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Plaza de Francia is located in the historic Casco Viejo district of Panama City. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and a convenient way to reach the area. If you're staying in Casco Viejo, it's easily accessible on foot. Reddit

Parking in Casco Viejo can be challenging due to narrow streets. It's often best to use taxis or ride-sharing services. If driving, look for designated parking lots or street parking, but be prepared for limited availability. :car:

While possible, it's a significant walk from many central areas. It's highly recommended to take a taxi or ride-share for comfort and efficiency, especially given the tropical climate. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Plaza de Francia and the Bóvedas are public spaces and do not require an entrance fee. You can explore the plaza and the accessible parts of the vaults freely. :free:

The plaza is generally accessible during daylight hours. The Bóvedas themselves may have specific access times, but the exterior and surrounding plaza are open to the public. It's best to visit during daylight for safety and visibility. :clock1:

While there aren't official guided tours specifically for the plaza and vaults, many walking tours of Casco Viejo include a stop here. You can also hire local guides in the area for a more personalized experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The arched Bóvedas offer dramatic, shadowed shots. The obelisk provides a central, iconic subject. For cityscapes, head to the edges of the plaza overlooking the bay and skyline. :camerawithflash:

Photography is generally allowed in the accessible areas of the Bóvedas. Be mindful of any posted signs and respect the historical nature of the site. :iphone:

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful soft light for capturing the architecture and city views. Early mornings can also be good for fewer people and softer light. :sunriseovermountains:

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

The Bóvedas were constructed in the 18th century and served as prisons and storage. The plaza itself was built in the early 20th century to commemorate the French attempt to build the Panama Canal, honoring their efforts and sacrifices. :scroll:

Originally, the Bóvedas served as defensive structures, then later as prisons and storage areas. Their robust architecture reflects their historical utility. :shield:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaza de Francia offers a safe and open space for children to explore the historic plaza. The Bóvedas can be an exciting, albeit slightly spooky, adventure for curious kids, sparking their imagination about history. The panoramic views are also a great way to show them the scale of Panama City. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities directly within the plaza are limited. TikTok

📸 Photographers

This location is a dream for photographers. The arched Bóvedas provide incredible leading lines and dramatic shadows, perfect for architectural shots. The obelisk is a strong central subject, and the panoramic city views at sunset or sunrise are unparalleled. Combine your visit with a stroll through Casco Viejo for even more photographic opportunities. Instagram

🚶 History Buffs

For those fascinated by history, Plaza de Francia and the Bóvedas are a must-visit. Delve into the stories of colonial prisons and the ambitious French canal project. The architecture itself tells a story of a bygone era. Consider joining a guided walking tour of Casco Viejo to gain deeper historical context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Bóvedas

The Bóvedas are a series of interconnected, arched vaults built in the 18th century. Originally intended for defense and later used as prisons and storage, they offer a fascinating glimpse into Panama's colonial past. Visitors can walk through some of these atmospheric spaces, imagining their historical use. The cool, dim interiors provide a stark contrast to the bright Panamanian sun outside. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven in places. Reddit

While the Bóvedas are a significant historical site, their accessibility can vary. Some sections might be closed for preservation or due to ongoing maintenance. Always be aware of your surroundings and any posted safety notices. The unique architecture makes them a popular spot for photographers looking for dramatic, historical shots. TikTok

The Plaza de Francia Experience

Plaza de Francia, inaugurated in 1920, is a beautiful public space dedicated to the French who initiated the Panama Canal project. At its center stands a prominent obelisk, a testament to their endeavors. The plaza offers stunning panoramic views of the Panama City skyline, the Bay of Panama, and the entrance to the Panama Canal. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Instagram

Surrounding the plaza are several important buildings, including the French Embassy and the National Institute of Culture. The area is a key part of Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through Plaza de Francia provides a sense of history and offers a perfect vantage point to appreciate the blend of old and new in Panama City. Reddit

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