Las Clementinas Hotel opened its doors in 2010, becoming one of the first restored hotels in the vibrant Casco Viejo district of Panama. Located on Avenida B and Calle 11, our building is a true gem of historic architecture. With 6 full apartments, 3 studio suites, a magical sunken courtyard, a lush secret garden, and a rooftop patio offering stunning views of the city and ocean, Las Clementinas offers a blend of modern amenities and timeless beauty.
The structure of Las Clementinas was built in the 1930s on a section of the original 1673 colonial city wall by a remarkable woman named Clementina Herrera. Ahead of her time, Clementina was known for being one of the first Panamanian women to wear pants and quickly became a figure of independence and strength. She built her wealth through hard work and determination, breaking barriers in a male-dominated society.
Clementina’s story unfolds during a time of great change in Panama. The economic boom of the Panama Railroad and the Gold Rush led to an influx of people seeking their fortune in the city. Clementina seized the opportunity and opened her own pawn shop, strategically located on one of Panama’s busiest streets. This thriving business soon attracted competition, and her neighbor, Mr. Jaén, also opened a high-end pawn shop next door.
Clementina and Mr. Jaén developed a close bond, and together they had a daughter, Clementina Jaén Herrera. The young Clementina spent her childhood between the two homes before being sent to France for her education.
Upon returning to Panama as World War II loomed over Europe, Clementina inherited her parents’ properties and made her home in the building she had inherited. She surrounded herself with imported treasures from around the world, including hand-painted tiles, art pieces, furniture, and intricate light fixtures. Though she never married or had children, Clementina opened her home to artists, intellectuals, and women who sought a safe space to enjoy their freedom.
Las Clementinas is located in Casco Viejo, Panama’s historical district, which has witnessed some of the most significant moments in the country’s history. Casco Viejo, founded in 1673, is one of the most treasured areas in Panama and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The district retains much of its original street layout, making it a unique and culturally rich area to explore.
At Las Clementinas, we offer a glimpse into what it feels like to live in this eclectic neighborhood, where the old world meets the new, and history comes to life with every step you take.
After many years of abandonment, Las Clementinas’ building was rediscovered, and its true potential revealed. The restoration process uncovered the beauty of the property, originally designed by architect Leonardo Villanueva Meyer. Many historical details were lovingly restored, including wood that had been retrieved from the bottom of Lake Gatun, flooded during the construction of the Panama Canal. These elements of the building reflect not only its architectural beauty but also the diverse lifestyle and culture that Clementina herself fostered.
Although a photograph of Clementina in her older age exists, her greatest legacy is found in her final wishes: she left all her worldly possessions, including her beloved Cadillac, to the Catholic Church. Clementina’s influence continues to be felt in the heart of Casco Viejo, where her spirit lives on through Las Clementinas. Today, we believe that the vibrant and diverse community in Casco reflects the culture Clementina built during her life—an open, welcoming space for all.
Las Clementinas is more than just a hotel—it’s a living part of Casco Viejo’s history. Every detail of our building tells a story, from its architectural features to the spirit of its original owner, Clementina Herrera. By staying with us, you’re not only enjoying a comfortable and unique experience, you’re becoming part of the ongoing story that began over a century ago.