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Portobelo was once Spain's primary Central American port. Galleons would anchor in the deep bay to pick up South American treasure headed for Spain. As a result, the city was a prime target for pirates. Among those who attacked Portobelo was the infamous Henry Morgan, who also sacked Panama City. Portobelo was also the place where explorer/privateer Sir Francis Drake died. He is buried in the bay. The ruins of the colonial trading center are the primary reason to visit Portobelo. They include two large fortresses complete with rusty cannons. Another sight worth seeing is the Church of the Black Christ. The Black Christ is a statue that was being shipped from Spain to the Viceroy of Peru when the ship sank in the bay. Portobeloans rescued the figure, which is said to have miraculous powers. Each year on 21 October, the statue is carried through the streets in a candlelight procession. The clear waters and tropical forests around Portobelo are another draw. Several dive centers offer trips to the area's best reefs. Isla Grande, an hour to the east, is a fishing town on an island. It has a small selection of accommodations as well as pretty beaches, diving and surfing. An impressive French-built lighthouse adorns the northern tip of the island. 50 mi/80 km north of Panama City. Lodging
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