Plaza de Francia (France Square), Panama City

France Square is located at the southern point of the city and showcases statues and large stone tablets narrating the story of French role in the construction of the Panama Canal. The square is dedicated to the memory of the approximately 22,000 workers hailed from France, Martinique and Guadeloupe, who passed away whilst attempting to build the canal. The majority of them died of diseases such as yellow fever and malaria.

You will also see the monument which was built in remembrance of the Cuban doctor Carlos J. Finlay, who found out how the mosquitoes transmitted yellow fever. His excellent work and dedication led to the eradication of the disease in the city and eventually around the world.

On the one side of the square you will see the restored dungeons nine of which were used by the Spaniards and subsequently by the Colombians - Paseo de Las Bovedas. These arched 18th-century vaults were used for prisoners & storage. Even though nowadays some of them house restaurants and upscale art galleries, the original stonework of the dungeons is still in place.

One such restaurant - Las Bovedas, is a fashionable and popular club. It attracts guests who love jazz and spending a romantic evening enjoying delicious cocktails. A visit to France Square will definitely enrich your experience in Panama City.