Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Penonomé
POP 20,000
The provincial capital of Coclé Province is a bustling crossroads city with a rich history.
Founded in 1581, Penonomé blossomed so quickly that it served as the temporary capital
of the isthmus in 1671 after the destruction of the first Panama City (now known as
Panamá Viejo) and until Nueva Panamá (now known as Casco Viejo) was founded a few
years later.
Today, the lifeline of the city is the Interamericana, which bisects Penonomé and en-
sures a steady stream of goods flowing in and out. If you're heading west, it's likely that
you will pass through here at some point, though it's worth hopping off the bus for the
city's two principal attractions, namely its annual festivals and its traditional panama
hats. Penonomé also serves as good jumping-off point for the nearby artisan town of La
Pintada.
