Isla Grande facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Isla Grande
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Corregimiento
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Toma aéra de Isla Grande
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 Isla Grande
Location in Panama
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| Country |  Panama |
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| Province | Colón | ||
| District | Portobelo | ||
| Area | |||
| • Land | 26.6 km2 (10.3 sq mi) | ||
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | 1,037 | ||
| • Density | 39/km2 (100/sq mi) | ||
| Population density calculated based on land area. | |||
| Time zone | UTC−5 (EST) | ||
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Isla Grande is a small island located off the Caribbean coast of Panama. It is part of the Portobelo District in Colón Province. The island is also a corregimiento, which is like a local administrative area.
In 2010, about 1,037 people lived on Isla Grande. This number has changed over the years. In 1990, there were 626 residents, and in 2000, the population was 1,055.
Contents
About Isla Grande
Isla Grande is known for its beautiful Caribbean setting. The island is quite small, covering about 26.6 square kilometers (about 10 square miles). It has a population density of around 39 people per square kilometer.
During certain times of the year, the ocean between Isla Grande and the mainland is perfect for surfing. This makes the island a popular spot for surfers.
Island Life and People
Most of the people living on Isla Grande have African roots. Their ancestors were likely black African slaves or people known as Cimarrones. Cimarrones were enslaved people who escaped and formed their own communities.
This rich history has shaped the culture and traditions of the island. The community on Isla Grande is vibrant and welcoming.
A Look Back in Time
Isla Grande has a long and interesting history. Its original name was Isla Grande de Bastimentos. This name means "Large Island of Provisions" in Spanish.
Columbus's Visit
The island was first discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1502. He found it during his fourth and final voyage to the Americas. He named it "Isle and port of Provisions."
The Blockade of Porto Bello
Isla Grande, along with its nearby port (Puerto de Bastimentos), played a key role in history. In 1726 and 1727, a major event called the Blockade of Porto Bello happened nearby. During this time, British Admiral Francis Hosier and his fleet of 20 ships were anchored there. Many of his sailors faced challenges due to tropical diseases.
The Isla Grande Lighthouse
Isla Grande is also home to an important lighthouse. This lighthouse helps guide ships safely along the coast.
The lighthouse was built in 1894. It stands about 26 meters (85 feet) tall. Its light shines from 93 meters (305 feet) above sea level. The lighthouse uses a special lens called a 2nd order Barbier & Cie. Fresnel lens. It can be seen from about 12 nautical miles away.
See also
In Spanish: Isla Grande (Panamá) para niños
