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Herrera Plaza

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Historical site
—°3
Herrera Plaza (Panama)

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Plaza Herrera is located on the western edge of Panama City's Casco Viejo district and is dedicated to General Tomás Herrera, a national hero who led the movement for sovereignty in the mid-19th century. The square was developed on the site of the former Plaza del Triunfo, which was used for bullfights and public festivities during the colonial era. A bronze equestrian statue of General Herrera stands at the center of the plaza, inaugurated in 1928 to celebrate his military and political contributions. The surrounding area features a mix of beautifully restored buildings, such as the neoclassical American Trade Hotel, and atmospheric ruins that showcase the district's architectural evolution. Compared to other major squares in the old city, Plaza Herrera has a more tranquil environment with lush greenery and shaded benches. Historically, this location marked the boundary between the fortified walled city and the suburbs beyond. Today, the plaza is an animated community space that frequently hosts open-air markets and cultural events, blending historical reverence with modern urban life.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272728282827272727272727
Rain mm20918107245253204220245260248108

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Herrera Plaza is a public square, visitable free of charge at any time. It is outdoors, surrounded by colonial buildings.
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Typical hours
The plaza has no fixed hours and is accessible 24/7. Surrounding shops and cafés are typically open during daytime.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the plaza - the statue of General Herrera and the old facades are appealing subjects. Use shadow contrasts for dramatic shots.
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Time needed
A short visit takes about 15-20 minutes. If you also explore the remnants of the city wall, allow 30 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine this plaza with French Plaza and Independence Plaza, all just a few minutes' walk apart. The Canal Museum is also nearby.
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Getting there
Herrera Plaza is centrally located in Casco Viejo, accessible on foot. Buses stop on the main street; taxis are a comfortable alternative.
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Insider tip
Look for traces of the old city wall on the north side of the plaza - they are well preserved and often overlooked. An early morning visit is quieter.

Geography

Coordinates
8.95300, -79.53600

Facts

  • The plaza is named after General Tomás Herrera, a key figure in Panamanian history.
  • The central equestrian statue was officially inaugurated in 1928.
  • Originally called Plaza del Triunfo, the site once hosted colonial bullfights.
  • The prominent American Trade Hotel building dates back to 1917.
  • It served as a key meeting point between the historic city and the outer suburbs.
  • The square's current layout emphasizes green space and pedestrian access.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Metropolitan Cathedral of PanamaMetropolitan Cathedral of Panama<1 km · NExplore →
Old Panama Railway StationOld Panama Railway Station2 km · SExplore →
Cinta Costera PlaygroundCinta Costera Playground2 km · NExplore →
National Zoo of PanamaNational Zoo of Panama3 km · SEExplore →
Estadio Rod CarewEstadio Rod Carew3 km · NEExplore →
Port of BalboaPort of Balboa3 km · SExplore →
Taboga Wildlife RefugeTaboga Wildlife Refuge4 km · SWExplore →
Torre Las AméricasTorre Las Américas4 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Herrera Plaza (3)

San Felipe, Panama📍 landmark

Neighborhood in Panama City, part of the historic Casco Viejo with colonial buildings.

Archdiocese of Panamá📍 landmark

Roman Catholic archdiocese based in Panama City.

Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama City📍 landmark

Main cathedral of the Archdiocese of Panama, located on Plaza de la Independencia.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

To whom is the square dedicated?
To General Tomás Herrera.
Is the square very crowded with tourists?
It is quieter than the Plaza de la Independencia.
What can you do here?
It is a nice place to observe life in Casco Viejo.
Are there places to sit?
Yes, there are some park benches.
Is it safe?
Yes, like everywhere in Casco Viejo, general safety is good.
Herrera Plaza: where is it located?
Herrera Plaza is located in Panama.
Herrera Plaza: what is there to see?
Highlights include San Felipe, Panama, Archdiocese of Panamá, Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama City.
Herrera Plaza: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Herrera Plaza: why is it worth visiting?
Plaza Herrera is located on the western edge of Panama City's Casco Viejo district and is dedicated to General Tomás Herrera, a national hero who led the movement for sovereignty in the mid-19th century.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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