Monumento a Goethals

The Monumento a Goethals sits at Morgan Avenue in Panama City and is constructed from white Vermont marble. The central column represents the Continental Divide, while three horizontal fountains symbolize the canal's lock system.

Theodore Roosevelt appointed George Washington Goethals as chief engineer of the Panama Canal in 1907, leading to the project's completion in 1914. The monument itself was unveiled in 1954 to honor his legacy decades later.

The inscription honors Major General George W. Goethals, who served as the chief engineer that brought the canal to life. The three horizontal fountains symbolize the locks and reflect the engineering feat that allows ships to move between two oceans.

The monument sits on Morgan Avenue in the city center and is easily accessible. Visitors can explore the site during daytime hours and view the marble details and fountains from multiple angles.

The design comes from architect Alfred P. Shaw and cleverly merges geographic features with the canal's engineering solutions. The combination of marble and water in the artwork reflects the balance between nature and human achievement.

Location: Panamá Province

GPS coordinates: 8.95850,-79.55570

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:43