San Miguelito, Panama
Region: San Miguelito is located in the province of Panama
Geographic Coordinates: 9.033000, -79.500000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal tropical climate with a rainy season from May to December and a dry season from January to April.
Population: 315019
Language: Spanish
San Miguelito is a district situated in the eastern region of Panama. It has a population of over 300, 000 people, Making it one of the most densely populated districts in the country. The area spans roughly 50 square kilometers and comprises both urban and suburban neighborhoods. San Miguelito has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times when it was inhabited by indigenous tribes like Changuinola and Coclé. During Spanish colonial rule, San Miguelito became an important center for agriculture and commerce due to its strategic location along trade routes.
Today, San Miguelito is known for its vibrant culture, Bustling markets, And lively nightlife. La Gran Estacion shopping mall is one popular attraction that offers visitors a wide range of shops, Restaurants, And entertainment options. The district also boasts several parks where visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as hiking or picnicking with family or friends. Notable parks include Parque Omar Torrijos Herrera which features walking trails and sports facilities while Parque Recreativo y Cultural Omar hosts cultural events throughout the year.
In terms of education, San Miguelito has several schools ranging from primary to tertiary level institutions including Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá which specializes in engineering programs. One unique aspect about San Miguelito is its strong Afro-Panamanian influence which can be seen through its music scene particularly with genres like reggae en español or salsa choke. The district also celebrates Carnival each year with colorful parades featuring traditional costumes and dance performances.
Overall San Miguelito offers visitors an authentic experience into Panamanian culture with plenty to see and do for all interests whether it’s exploring historical sites or enjoying modern amenities like shopping malls or nightclubs.
Important Landmarks
- San Miguelito is a district located in Panama City, known for its urban and residential areas.
- It does not have any major landmarks or tourist attractions of its own.
- However, there are some popular nearby attractions in Panama City such as:
- The Panama Canal
- Casco Viejo (Old Town)
- Amador Causeway
- Ancon Hill
- Biomuseo
- San Miguelito, Panama is primarily a residential area and does not have any major industries or businesses.
- However, there are several small businesses such as convenience stores, restaurants, and beauty salons.
- The area is also home to several schools and educational institutions.
- Many residents of San Miguelito commute to nearby areas such as Panama City for work in various industries including finance, tourism, and logistics.
- The district was established in 1970 as a part of the expansion project for Panama City.
- During the United States invasion of Panama in 1989, San Miguelito was heavily affected by military operations.
- Erika Ender, a singer-songwriter who co-wrote the hit song Despacito, is one notable person from San Miguelito.
- Roberto Durán, a world champion boxer in multiple weight classes, grew up in San Miguelito and is another famous resident.
- The district has been home to several important educational institutions like Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá and Colegio José Daniel Crespo.
- In recent years, San Miguelito has witnessed rapid growth and development as part of Panama City’s overall expansion and modernization efforts.
- Museo del Canal Interoceánico de Panamá (Panama Canal Museum)
- Museo Antropológico Reina Torres de Araúz (Reina Torres de Arauz Anthropological Museum)
- Centro Cultural Omar Torrijos Herrera (Omar Torrijos Cultural Center)
- Monumento a la Bandera (Flag Monument)
- Parque Natural Metropolitano (Metropolitan Natural Park)
- Parroquia San Miguel Arcangel (San Miguel Arcangel Parish Church)
- Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen (Our Lady of Carmen Church)
- Casa Museo Ricardo Miró (Ricardo Miró House Museum)
- Plaza 5 de Mayo and the National Institute of Culture Building
- Centro Comercial Los Andes Mall
- Festival of San Miguel Arcangel: This religious festival occurs annually on September 29th to honor the patron saint of San Miguelito.
- Independence Day Celebrations: Panamanians celebrate their independence from Spain every November 3rd with parades and festivities throughout the country, including in San Miguelito.
- Carnival: Panama’s version of Mardi Gras is celebrated in February or March with colorful parades, music, and dancing.
- Festival del Toro Guapo: This festival celebrates the indigenous culture of the region with traditional dances and bullfighting.
- National Folklore Festival: Held every July in Panama City but attended by many from San Miguelito who showcase their traditional music and dance performances.
- International Film Festival: Every April sees this week-long event which showcases films from all over Latin America including screenings at a number of venues across the city including one located in San Miguelito itself.
- Christmas Celebrations: During December people celebrate Christmas throughout the country with lights decorating streets and houses as well as festive food markets where you can buy gifts for loved ones or enjoy some local delicacies like tamales or empanadas!
- Panamanian-style ceviche – a seafood dish made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
- Arroz con pollo – a traditional dish of chicken and rice cooked together with vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, and carrots.
- Sancocho – a hearty soup made with chicken or beef broth and root vegetables like yucca or plantains.
- Chicharrones – deep-fried pork belly or pork rinds seasoned with salt served as a snack or appetizer.
- El Fogón de Doña Flor – known for its traditional Panamanian dishes like arroz con pollo, sancocho de gallina (chicken soup), chuleta en salsa (pork chops in sauce).
- La Pizzeria Italiana – serves authentic Italian pizza baked in wood-fired ovens.
- Los Camarones – specializes in seafood dishes such as ceviche mixto (mixed seafood ceviche) and camarones al ajillo (garlic shrimp).
- La Rana Dorada – offers craft beer brewed on-site along with pub food like burgers and fries.
- Restaurante Mi Ranchito – serves traditional Panamanian cuisine including arroz con pollo and sancocho de gallina.
- La Parrilla Argentina – specializes in grilled meats such as steak, chorizo sausage,and ribs served alongside chimichurri sauce.
- Parque Omar Torrijos Herrera: This is a large public park with several sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas.
- Jardín Botánico Summit: This botanical garden features a variety of plant species and hiking trails.
- Parque Recreativo y Cultural Omar: This park offers recreational activities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and sports fields.
- Parque Metropolitano de Santiago: Located in the neighboring district of Santiago, this park has hiking trails and an observation tower with views of the city.
- Club Deportivo La Salle: This sports club offers facilities for soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and swimming.
- Centro Deportivo Villa Lucre: This sports complex has facilities for soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis and swimming.
- Centro de Convenciones Atlapa: While not a traditional park or recreational area per se, this convention center hosts events such as concerts and trade shows that may be of interest to visitors to San Miguelito.