Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama, Catholic cathedral in Casco Antiguo, Panama.
The Metropolitan Cathedral is a Catholic church in Casco Antiguo featuring thick stone walls and two distinctive towers adorned with mother-of-pearl inlays. The interior is divided into three naves, each accessible through its own entrance door.
Construction began in 1688 following the relocation from Panama Viejo after a pirate attack destroyed the original settlement. The building took over 100 years to complete while the new city developed around it.
The cathedral draws attention for its mother-of-pearl inlays on the two towers that catch the light and shimmer in the sun. Local residents and visitors notice these sparkling details right away when approaching from the plaza.
The church sits on the west side of Plaza Mayor, raised several steps above street level. Access is straightforward but requires climbing a few steps up from the street.
The interior holds 67 cruciform columns made of stone and brick supporting the high ceiling. The white walls combined with blue sections create a distinctive visual pattern throughout the space.
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