Heritage & monuments
Goethals Monument
Goethals Monument
The Goethals Monument is a memorial dedicated to George Washington Goethals, the chief engineer who oversaw the construction of the Panama Canal. Visitors go here to see the monument and reflect on the engineering history and the labor involved in completing the canal.
Getting There
The monument is located in the Ancon area of Panama City. From the city centre, it is most efficient to take a taxi or a ride-sharing service. The trip typically takes 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Visit Duration
Because the site is a specific monument rather than a large complex, most visitors spend between 30 and 60 minutes here.
When to Visit
It is advisable to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and humidity of Panama City. The site does not typically experience the heavy crowds found at the canal locks or the historic district.
Nearby Attractions
The monument is situated near several other points of interest, making it easy to combine with other stops:
- Ancon Hill (0.7km): A nearby elevated point offering views of the city and canal.
- Panama Museum of Contemporary Art (1.4km): A gallery focusing on modern works.
- Afro-Antillean Museum of Panama (1.9km): A museum detailing the history of the Afro-Antillean community.
- Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama City (2.3km): A historic religious site in the city centre.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors