Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol

The Santiago Apostol church features a stone facade, wooden columns made of nispero hardwood, and six ornate side altars within its spacious interior.

Construction of the church began in 1522 under Spanish colonization, making it one of the oldest functioning religious structures in the Americas.

Indigenous artisans created detailed wood carvings throughout the church, incorporating local motifs like fruit, leaves, and feathered serpents into the altar designs.

Visitors can access the church during mass times and special events, reaching it by following the Panamericana highway to Natá town center.

The church contains a controversial 1758 painting of the Holy Trinity by José Samaniego, depicting three identical Christ figures instead of traditional representations.

Location: Coclé Province

GPS coordinates: 8.33200,-80.51524

Latest update: March 10, 2025 15:43