Iglesia Santo Domingo and the Flat Arch (Arco Chato)

Originally constructed in the 17th century, the church and convent of Santo Domingo were never rebuilt after a fire that destroyed them in 1756. The only thing that did survive – for centuries – was the Flat Arch (Arco Chato) sitting at the entrance. The Arch stood as a testament to the fact that Panama was spared from major seismic activity and contributed to the case to build a major canal in the area. It eventually collapsed on a Friday night in November 2003 – from age and neglect. Currently, the ruins of Santo Domingo are undergoing restoration and will eventually provide a space for cultural and artistic presentations similar to the space in Panama Viejo ruins.

Iglesia Santo Domingo and the Flat Arch (Arco Chato) Map

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About Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is the historic district and cultural gem of Panama City. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, Casco Viejo was established around 1673 by the Spanish colonialists, the Catholic Church, and other settlers. Historically one of the richest and most densely... Read More »