Santiago de Veraguas is one of the oldest cities in Panama, founded in 1522 by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de los Ríos. Located in the province of Veraguas, it is the capital of the province and the second largest city in the country. The city is known for its colonial architecture, its old churches, and its vibrant cultural life. It is also home to some of the oldest archaeological sites in Panama, including the ruins of the ancient city of Quemado.
The city of Santiago de Veraguas was founded by Pedro de los Ríos, who was sent by the Spanish crown to explore the area. After finding a suitable location, he established a fort and named it Santiago de Veraguas. The fort served as a base for the Spanish to explore the rest of the region and to control the local indigenous population.
In 1531, the city was officially recognized by the Spanish crown and it became the capital of the province of Veraguas. The city grew rapidly and by the early 17th century, it was the largest city in Panama. During this period, Santiago de Veraguas was home to a thriving economy, with a large number of merchants, artisans, and traders.
The city was also an important cultural center, with a number of churches, monasteries, and other religious institutions. It was also home to a number of schools, including the University of Panama, which was founded in the mid-16th century.
During the 19th century, Santiago de Veraguas experienced a period of decline. The city was damaged by a number of earthquakes and floods, and the population began to decline. In the early 20th century, the city was revitalized by the construction of a railroad connecting it to the rest of Panama.
Today, Santiago de Veraguas is a bustling city with a population of over 100,000 people. It is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions such as the old churches, the colonial architecture, and the archaeological sites. There are also a number of festivals and events that take place throughout the year, including the Festival of Santiago de Veraguas, which is held every year in August.
Santiago de Veraguas is an important part of Panama's history and culture, and its old buildings and monuments are reminders of the city's past. The city is also home to some of the oldest archaeological sites in Panama, including the ruins of the ancient city of Quemado. Whether you're looking for a place to explore the colonial history of Panama or just to enjoy the vibrant culture of the city, Santiago de Veraguas is the perfect place to visit.