Due to the importance of its narrow passage, Panama was quickly converted into a major commercial capital, connecting Asia, America, Africa and Europe. Because of this intense commerce component, everyone who made the journey left reminiscence of their homeland, forging a distinct Panamanian way of life. From the continent of Africa arrived the slaves and from Asia sugar cane, mango, rice and silk. The Europeans introduced the horse, bird, big, wheat, and steel, while from America came potatoes, tomatoes, pineapple, and tons of precious metals. The English, Hollandaise and French soon discovered the richness of Panama and each deposited cultural expressions of their homeland.
The varied ethnic cultures and physical characteristics also generated folklore, combining African drums with European lyrics and guitar playing. Along the Caribbean coast you will encounter dancers in decorative costumes, paying homage to their loved ones or narrating the lurid conditions of the slaves. The principal port of the Caribbean, Portobelo, you can observe the legendary fairs of the Rio de la Plata, accompanied by European floats of products shuttled by mule. These events help reaffirm the culture, hospitality and service that is typical Panamanian.