Plaza Herrera

A modest, grassy, and peaceful spot on the northwestern edge of Casco Viejo, Plaza Herrera is flanked by a couple bars but otherwise is off the usual sightseeing route. Nevertheless, it's a lovely little place named for General Tomás Herrera. Herrera fought for independence from Spain and, after the Spanish relinquished control of Panama, led the first Panamanian battle for independence from Colombia in 1840. A statue of this local hero mounted on horseback rises proudly in the center of the Plaza, created in 1954 as a memorial for the centennial of Herrera's death and finally dedicated in 1976. Benches along the brick pathways crossing the Plaza Herrera are ideal for taking a quiet moment to rest your feet.