Something of an archaeological curiosity, the Arco Chato is a long, flat arch that sits inside the crumbling remains of the Church of Saint Dominic. The church was destroyed by fires twice in the 18th century. The stone arch remained standing. Legend has it that when western architects were touring Central America to establish the best site for a pan-oceanic waterway, this arch played a part in their decision to build the canal in Panama. The fact that such a long, delicate arch had remained intact for so many centuries was taken as evidence that the country was seismically stable.

Location:
Calle San Francisco and Ave A
Casco, Panama City, Panama

Ruin Types:
Ruins

By Mike Karanicolas

Michael Karanicolas is a writer, traveler, photographer, and roving buccaneer. His legendary exploits include running with the bulls in Pamplona,...

Created: 16 Jul 2008

Updated: 16 Jul 2008