Baluarte de Barlovento and Colonial Wall
By Anabela Fábrega
General Manager, Compañía Inmobiliaria San Felipe
Plazuela de Alfaro is more than an innovative residential development: it is an initiative that seeks to revive the history of our city by highlighting the presence of a section of the old colonial wall and the Baluarte de Barlovento, protagonists of the open-air commercial gallery.
The Baluarte de Barlovento was one of the five bastions that formed the defensive structure of Panama City when it was relocated in 1673 to its current location in San Felipe, following the attack of the pirate Henry Morgan to the old city or Panamá Viejo.
The construction of the wall began in 1672, before the founding of the new city. From the top of these bastions shaped in the form of a diamond the city could be monitored and protected against threats coming by sea or land.
The Baluarte de Barlovento is perhaps one of the least remembered, as it is partially hidden today by buildings constructed in the early 19th century, when the demolition of the wall was ordered to allow for urban expansion. However, like other better-known bastions such as Baluarte de Jesús (also known as Mano de Tigre) and San José, it forms part of a highly significant heritage legacy that we Panamanians consider urgent to preserve.
Contrary to what many believe, some sections of the old wall are still standing today, especially along the seaside. One example is the series of vaults surrounding Plaza de Francia (formerly known as Punta de Chiriquí), where Paseo Esteban Huertas is now located.
A setting with living history
The commercial units of the Plazuela de Alfaro Gallery are located precisely around the Baluarte de Barlovento and atop a restored section of the old colonial wall. This integration between heritage and commerce creates a unique pedestrian experience in Casco Antiguo—authentic, cultural, and full of character. For those who value history as part of their brand identity or lifestyle, this location offers an unparalleled opportunity.
