Panama City metropolitan area

Panama City metropolitan area
Metropolitan area
Metropolitan Area of Panama City
Skyline of Panama City
Flag Official seal of Panama City metropolitan area Seal
Coordinates: 8°58′N 79°32′W Fatal error: The format of the coordinate could not be determined. Parsing failed.
Country	Panama
Province	Panama Province
Districts	Panama District, San Miguelito District
Established	1998
Area
• Total	2,560 km2 (990 sq mi)
Population  (2021)
• Total	1,500,000
• Density	590/km2 (1,500/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC-5 (EST)
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
Website	Official website

The Panama City metropolitan area, also known as the Metropolitan Area of Panama City, is a major metropolitan area located in the Republic of Panama. It is the most populous and economically significant metropolitan area in the country. The Panama City metropolitan area is situated in the Panama Province and includes the districts of Panama and San Miguelito.

Geography

The Panama City metropolitan area is located in the southeastern part of Panama, along the Pacific Ocean. It covers a total area of approximately 2,560 square kilometers. The metropolitan area is characterized by its diverse topography, including coastal areas, hills, and mountains. The Panama Canal, a major international shipping route, runs through the metropolitan area.

History

The Panama City metropolitan area was officially established in 1998 with the aim of promoting regional development and improving coordination between the various districts. Since its establishment, the metropolitan area has experienced rapid growth and urbanization, becoming a hub for commerce, finance, and tourism in Central America.

Demographics

As of 2021, the population of the Panama City metropolitan area is estimated to be around 1.5 million people. The metropolitan area is highly diverse, with a mix of ethnicities and cultures. The majority of the population is of mestizo (mixed indigenous and European) descent, with significant populations of Afro-Panamanians, indigenous peoples, and expatriates from various countries.

Economy

The Panama City metropolitan area is the economic center of Panama and plays a crucial role in the country's economy. The metropolitan area is home to numerous multinational corporations, financial institutions, and service industries. The Panama Canal, one of the world's most important shipping routes, contributes significantly to the economy of the metropolitan area. Tourism is also a major economic driver, with Panama City serving as a popular destination for international visitors.

Transportation

The Panama City metropolitan area has a well-developed transportation infrastructure. The Tocumen International Airport, located in the eastern part of the metropolitan area, is the busiest airport in Central America and serves as a major hub for international flights. The metropolitan area is also connected by an extensive road network, including the Pan-American Highway, which runs through the area. Public transportation within the metropolitan area is provided by buses and a metro system, known as the Panama Metro.

Education

The Panama City metropolitan area is home to several prestigious educational institutions. The University of Panama, the country's largest and oldest university, is located in the metropolitan area. Other notable universities and colleges in the area include the Technological University of Panama, the Latin University of Panama, and the Santa Maria La Antigua Catholic University.

Culture

The Panama City metropolitan area is known for its vibrant cultural scene. The area is home to numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The historic district of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular tourist attraction and features colonial-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and a lively nightlife. The metropolitan area also hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the diverse traditions and heritage of Panama.

See also

• Panama City
• Panama Province
• San Miguelito District

External links

• Official website of the Panama City metropolitan area