Casco Viejo, San Felipe

Panama City, Panama

As many times as I have walked the Calles of Casco Antiguo, the un-restored buildings in their dilapidated condition are endlessly fascinating. How many times have I pulled out the digital camera to capture the essence of a fading façade?  Many. Panama’s patrimony with their walls of hand hewn stone such as the Arco Chato and  Compañía de Jesus, are the subject for countless photographers as is Club Union, a hulking shell on the Bahia, once the former social club of Panama’s elite.  Scenes from the upcoming James Bond movie were shot at Club Union as hundreds of locals milled around in cocktail attire waiting for their cue.  Kim Corson, former powerhouse attorney turned adventuring sailor, focused his camera a few days ago on the old city. Whether graffiti was found framed or as a mural, both intrigued. In future blogs, more of Casco Antiguo’s fading beauties beckoning to be restored will be featured.