Iglesia San Jose

The main attraction at the Iglesia de San José is the famous Altar de Oro (Golden Altar) which was miraculously saved after the sacking of Panamá Viejo. According to local legend, when word came of pirates' impending attack, a priest attempted to disguise the altar by painting it black. Decades later when memories had faded, the paint began to fade, too, and the priceless artifact was uncovered and properly restored to its lustrous beauty.

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About Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is the historic district and cultural gem of Panama City. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, Casco Viejo was established around 1673 by the Spanish colonialists, the Catholic Church, and other settlers. Historically one of the richest and most densely... Read More »