This is where it all began

Casco Viejo’s churches are among Panama’s most iconic landmarks. Notably, the Metropolitan Cathedral anchors the main plaza with its towering presence and colonial design. In contrast, nearby Iglesia San José captivates visitors with its legendary golden altar. Additionally, Iglesia San Francisco and Iglesia de la Merced echo the city’s layered past. Together, these churches form a tribute to centuries of faith, architecture, and culture in this UNESCO-recognized district

the Metropolitan Cathedral

If you’ve been to Casco, you’ve seen it — the Metropolitan Cathedral, anchoring Plaza Mayor with quiet authority. I still get goosebumps every time I walk past. Towering twin bell towers, centuries of history, and that unmistakable colonial presence — this isn’t just a landmark, it’s the soul of the district. In 2019, Pope Francis himself held mass here, reminding us that this space isn’t just sacred — it’s globally significant.

Iglesia de San José

Tucked just off the main drag, San José is famous for its gold — literally. The Golden Altar is the star here, a Baroque masterpiece that was hidden behind paint during pirate attacks and still shines today. It’s one of those spots where locals light candles, tourists snap photos, and the past feels right at your fingertips.

IglesiaIglesia de San Francisco de Asís

San Francisco de Asís is elegance defined. Framed by palm trees and always photogenic, it’s had more lives than a cat. Fires, rebuilds, and now a shining white restoration that makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the district. This is where art, history, and serenity all come together under one roof.

Iglesia Santo Domingo

Now this one’s a bit different. The church is mostly in ruins, but it holds a secret — the Flat Arch (Arco Chato). It’s stood so improbably for centuries that it convinced the world Panama wasn’t earthquake-prone, helping win the Canal bid. That’s right — a broken church helped build global trade. Only in Casco

Iglesia de San Felipe de Neri

A true neighborhood gem, San Felipe de Neri often flies under the radar — and that’s exactly its charm. Hidden behind a modest façade just off Plaza Bolívar, this church is deeply rooted in local life. It’s an active parish where you’ll still find weddings, baptisms, and daily prayers happening in real time. Its quiet interior offers a moment of calm and connection, away from the tourist flow — just the way the community likes it.

Iglesia de Santa Ana

Step just outside the formal edge of Casco into Plaza Santa Ana, and you’ll find a church that’s as real as it gets. Iglesia de Santa Ana isn’t polished or touristy — it’s the people’s church. Built in the late 1800s, it’s a place where locals gather, light candles, and celebrate everyday life. It’s got soul, grit, and a quiet dignity that’s never lost — even as the city changes around it.

Iglesia de la Merced

You’ll find La Merced standing proud with its stone-carved façade, just a block from the water. It’s smaller, more intimate, and that’s what I love about it. Built using stones from the original Panama Viejo, it’s a quiet reminder that the city moved, but the spirit stayed. Walk inside, and you’ll feel the calm instantly.