- Address: Iglesia Catedral Metropolitana, Panama
The state of Panama, though small, but very famous and significant, especially in terms of shipping. After all, from school, each of us knows that it is thanks to the complex system of locks of the Panama Canal that two huge oceans - Pacific and Atlantic - join together. There are many other attractions in the country, for example, the Cathedral, located in the old Panama .
Acquaintance with the Cathedral
In the old part of the city of Panama , the capital of Panama, there is the Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana). This majestic building is the main object of the architectural heritage of the city. Like many religious buildings in Europe, the cathedral was built in parts and in stages over more than a hundred years. First, the front part was erected, then - the main part of the temple, and the last 24 years have gone to complete the completion of construction and decoration. It is believed that the construction of the Cathedral in old Panama was a challenge to the pirate Henry Morgan, who repeatedly attacked the city with his thugs, destroyed and burned many quarters.
The cathedral has two tower-bell towers 36 meters high, there is an observation deck with an excellent panorama view of the city. Do not be surprised that the right bell tower is slightly different from the left: in 1821 it completely collapsed in the earthquake, but was later restored.
What is interesting about the Cathedral?
The Cathedral in old Panama is of great interest to modern architects. The appearance of the building shows how the architectural style of the building has changed with the example of the facade and bell-towers, especially the interesting decor of the towers and the old facade. And the roofs of the bell-towers are decorated with shells from the Pearl Islands , Las Perlas. The Council of the Cathedral stands on stone and brick columns, in total there are 67 of them. It is worth noting the inner beauty of the temple: skilful stained glass windows and unique lamps cast traditionally from bronze.
At the end of the XIX century in Panama were invited masters from France to build the Panama Canal , later they also worked on the construction of the altar. Already in our time it became known that the Cathedral during construction was connected by underground tunnels with all the churches and monasteries of old Panama. But, alas, excursions now do not carry out on them: the most part of tunnels to the XX-th century has collapsed or is in an emergency condition.
By the way, bells are considered special property of the Cathedral of old Panama. They were cast in the presence of the Queen of Spain and the courtiers who threw their gold jewelery and jewelry in the hot metal. Therefore, the sound of bells is considered noble.
How to get to the Cathedral?
Up to the oldest Panama you can easily reach any city bus route or by taxi. Further on the historical center it is possible to walk only on foot to Independence Square. The cathedral is visible from afar, it's simply impossible to pass it.
Currently, the Cathedral is closed for complete restoration, and visits are temporarily impossible.
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