Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Plan your stay
&promo_pic=/one-page/coolest.jpg)
Posts
@high_r0w Spend a day with me in Casco Antiguo; read & save this post for your trip to Panamá. 🏷️📌 🇵🇦 The Old Quarter, often referred to as Casco Antiguo, Casco Viejo, or San Felipe, is the oldest part of Panama City. It was constructed after the original Panamá city, Panamá Viejo, was nearly completely destroyed by pirate attacks in 1671 and occupied in 1673. Here are my top ✋🏼 things to do while exploring Casco Antiguo: 🍧 Because it’s hot in Panama, stop and enjoy a 𝙍𝙖𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙙𝙖! In several Latin American nations, a raspada is a popular kind of snow cone. It goes by several names, including Minuta, Piragua, Granizado, among others. My favorite flavor is the passion fruit or mango with condensed milk; I had both, of course, because, baby, it was HOT!! 🥵 ⛪️ Pay a visit to the 𝙈𝙚𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙣 𝘾𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝘽𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙖 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙖. The Ancient-Large stone church, with its imposing twin bell towers, was completed in 1796 after a century of construction. 🇵🇦Stroll through 𝙋𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙤 𝙙𝙚 𝙇𝙖𝙨 𝘽ó𝙫𝙚𝙙𝙖𝙨. The stone seawall and promenade from the colonial era, which runs several blocks, was originally constructed as part of Panama City’s protection against pirate raids. Las Bóvedas refers to the chambers and jail cells that are a part of the construction and have been abandoned for centuries. Following their restoration in the 1980s, these vaults are now home to a number of chic businesses and cafés. It’s common to see people selling molas on the sidewalks, particularly Kuna Yala women. 🔔See the ruins at the 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙚 𝙎𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝘿𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙤. Two significant fires destroyed the church’s tower and inner spaces, leaving only these stunning ruins in Casco Viejo, which were constructed in 1678. 🌆🍸 Lastly visit one of the many 𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙛𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙗𝙖𝙧𝙨 to enjoy a cocktail and some appetizers while taking in the breathtaking Panama City skyline; it’s especially lovely towards sunset. #panama #panamá #cascoantiguo #cascoviejo #travel #panamatravel #travelguide #latinoamerica #centralamericatravel
latinxtravelclub
8472
This church was built between 1688 and 1794, its main façade presents a series of architectural elements typical of primate churches, such as the Cross of Caravaca, the Papal Emblem and the keys to the city. The main altarpiece was restored in 2018, as was the painting of Our Lady of the Assumption. Its altar was probably made in the middle of the 18th century. The gilding elements correspond to 23-carat gold leaf. Pope Francis consecrated the altar of the church on January 26, 2019, during the activities of WYD Panama. At the consecration mass of the altar, the head of the Vatican himself was surprised by the beauty of the temple and thanked all those involved in the magnificent work. Useful information: - World Heritage Site - National hystoric monument - Business hours: 7:00 a.m./ 7:00 p.m. - Free entry - Approximate visit time: 30 minutes onwards I recommend visiting with proper attire (fresh clothes are allowed) - Taking photos is allowed - Take your hat off before entering No smoking Don’t talk on the cell phone
Karin S.
10
This is a beautiful Catholic Basilica dating back hundreds of years, and is considered the most important basilica in all of Panama. The church was finished in 1794. The main altar was restored in 2018. The entire altar is basically comprised of full gold. It's magnificent craftsmanship indeed. Take the time to stroll around and see the different sculptures & artwork. And as always, respect the rules of the grounds. They have a donation box towards the entrance of the church, as well as souvenirs. I would give something, just to go towards building maintenance.
Craig Prater
00
Experience the grandeur of the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient! 🏰⛪ Located in Panama City's historic district, this architectural masterpiece dates back centuries and showcases Panama's rich religious heritage. Marvel at its ornate interior, adorned with beautiful artwork and sculptures. A must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts!
Marwan
00
My family and I were exploring Panama City and our driver brought us here. I really enjoyed my visit inside while my family also were in the plaza shopping and buying street food. It's a gorgeous Catholic Basílica with many relics and this place of worship should be respected (obey all rules listed). It has beautiful stained glass windows and many treasures. Enjoy!
Alma Fawcett
10
The symmetrical Renaissance stone facade of the oldest church in Panama (built 1688–1796) is the optical highlight of the Plaza de la Independencia, opposite of the cathedral's main entrance. Being rebuilt several times various styles prove immanent and form a harmonious whole. Impressive, the massive wooden ceiling. Yet, all dimensions remain tangible and human.
D Henrick
00
Nearby Attractions Of Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient
France Square
Plaza Simón Bolívar
Tántalo Hotel / Kitchen / Roofbar
Panama Canal Museum
Selina Casco Viejo Panama City & Cowork
Plaza Herrera
Plaza V Centenario
Church of the Mercy
National Theatre
Town Square of Casco Antiguo
France Square
4.6
(3.5K)
Click for details
Plaza Simón Bolívar
4.6
(1.8K)
Click for details
Tántalo Hotel / Kitchen / Roofbar
4.5
(1.4K)
Click for details
Panama Canal Museum
4.6
(1.4K)
Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient
Mercado De Marisco Cinta Costera
CasaCasco
La Pulpería - Casco Antiguo
La Rana Dorada Casco
Lazotea Restaurant & Rooftop
San Felipe Neri Public Market
Fonda Lo Que Hay
La Fishería Seafood
En La Fonda, Panamá
Cevichera La Bendición
Mercado De Marisco Cinta Costera
4.2
(5.7K)
$$
Click for details
CasaCasco
4.5
(2.1K)
$$$
Click for details
La Pulpería - Casco Antiguo
4.9
(1.7K)
$$
Click for details
La Rana Dorada Casco
4.6
(1.6K)
$$
Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
7-53, Av. B, Panama City, Panamá Province, Panama
Map
Reviews
Overview
4.8
(823 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
accessibility
Description
The Metropolitan Archcathedral Basilica of Santa María la Antigua is a Catholic church located in the old town of Panama City in Panama. It was consecrated in 1796, although construction work began in 1688, 108 years earlier. It was designed by the military engineer Nicolás Rodríguez.
attractions: France Square, Plaza Simón Bolívar, Tántalo Hotel / Kitchen / Roofbar, Panama Canal Museum, Selina Casco Viejo Panama City & Cowork, Plaza Herrera, Plaza V Centenario, Church of the Mercy, National Theatre, Town Square of Casco Antiguo, restaurants: Mercado De Marisco Cinta Costera, CasaCasco, La Pulpería - Casco Antiguo, La Rana Dorada Casco, Lazotea Restaurant & Rooftop, San Felipe Neri Public Market, Fonda Lo Que Hay, La Fishería Seafood, En La Fonda, Panamá, Cevichera La Bendición
