Santiago de Veraguas is the capital of the Panamanian province of Veraguas.
Centrally located between foothills of the central cordillera and the coastal marsh of the Gulf of Montijo, Santiago is the cultural, economic and transportation hub of the region. From 60,059 (1990 Census), the city has grown to over 75,000 (2008 est). The city is served by Ruben Cantu Airport.
The natural diversity of the area is seen among the ecological reserves, from the Santa Fe National Park in the north to the Cerro Hoya National Park in the far south and Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site off the coast.[1]
Santiago is one of the oldest settlements in Panama although the architectural heritage are of more recent construction among which is the Normal school with its ornate facade.
Santiago celebrates many religious holidays including Carnavales in February and Patronales at the end of July yearly.