Panama / Place guide
Discover Panama
Panama forms the narrow land connection between Central and South America, bordering Costa Rica and Colombia. Shores face two oceans. The canal gives that geographical position a particular economic meaning by connecting Atlantic and Pacific shipping routes across the isthmus.
Explore Panama on the OrbiPlace map ↗
Explore Panama
Land bridge and water passage
These are different roles within the same landscape. The narrow territory links continental regions, while the canal creates a crossing for vessels. Neither function describes every part of the country.
Capital beside the Pacific
Panama City occupies the ocean side rather than the canal's Caribbean entrance. Independence from Colombia in 1903 belongs alongside canal history. Keeping capital, waterway and wider national territory distinct preserves their different geographical and historical identities.
Background source: Panama. Editorial text: OrbiPlace.
Start with the city overview, then zoom in to explore streets and landmarks. The location point does not define municipal boundaries.