News

Hyatt has announced the final phase of a renovation of a classic hotel in Casco Viejo has been completed, adding a major new addition to the accommodation in Panama City’s famed old quarter.

The Hotel La Compañía is the property in Central America to be included in the chain’s “Unbound Collection,” described as “a compilation of one-of-a-kind hotels.” The Hotel La Compañía, which officially opened earlier this year, certainly fits the bill.

The hotel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is billed as a “living museum” of Panama City’s history. The renovation has taken seven years and was designed around three wings representing different eras and styles. The main section of the hotel dates to a 17th-century Jesuit convent’ another section, the French Colonial wing, was built by Jesuit priests in 1739.

The recently completed final section is the “American wing,” which features a Beaux-Art-era style and originally housed a high-end department store dating to 1904. It will include 23 guest rooms and four new restaurants, including a rooftop bar to take full advantage of Panama City’s beautiful climate.

The hotel also includes 1739, a French fine-dining outlet with a 300-year-old wine cellar; El Santuario, an all-day dining outlet reminiscent of a Spanish church; and a bakery, La Panaderia.

“We worked hard to create a space that stayed true to the historical integrity of the building while providing a modern experience,” General Manager Fidel Reyes said in a statement. “We’re thrilled with how it has all come together with the Spanish and French Colonial Wings to tell an amazing story about Panama through art and design.”

Casco Viejo is developing into a beautiful luxury destination, with more major hotel chains developing special properties. In addition to Hyatt’s Hotel La Compañía, Sofitel is scheduled to open its “highly-anticipated” new Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Panama in January, which will be another major addition to Casco Viejo’s offerings.