Portobelo & Gatun Locks
Overview
| Duration: | 6 - 8 hrs. |
|---|---|
| Departs | Everyday at 8:30am |
| Code | CT14 |
Description
Potobelo National Park was an important silver-exporting port in New Granada on the Spanish Main and one of the ports on the route of the Spanish treasure fleets.
The city was also involved in one of Captain Henry Morgan's famous adventures. Portobelo is a sleepy city with a population of fewer than 5,000.
It has a deep natural harbor. In 1980 the ruins of the fortification, along with nearby Fort San Lorenzo, were declared a World Heritage Site. The most interesting and historic ruins are also the ones most accessible to the visitor. The forts of Santiago and San Geronimo are each but a 5-minute walk from the pier.
The forts are a neat place to explore. Cannons still point out to sea, although the munitions depots are now empty and the only permanent inhabitants of the fort are countless crabs.
Even closer is the "Customs House", built in 1630, the remains of the church of La Merced, and the church of San Felipe, the last building to be built by the Spaniards.
It was inaugurated in 1814. Its most carefully guarded and priceless relic is a beautifully carved statue of Jesus of Nazareth which, because of the dark wood from which it is made, is known as the "Black Christ".
During this tour you also visit a Beach where you'll take Lunch and take a refreshing bath.
Includes: Transfer from Hotel, Lunch, Snacks, Water and Juice, Guide and Entrace Fee to the Panama
