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Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís
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Historical site
The Church of San Francisco de Asis is a historic gem located on Bolivar Plaza in Casco Antiguo. Originally built by the Franciscan order in the late 17th century, the church has been destroyed by fire and rebuilt several times, with the current structure reflecting a major 1918 renovation. It is famous for its beautiful neoclassical facade and its remarkable interior, which features intricate woodcarvings and stained glass. The church is also historically significant as the site of the first sessions of the Pan-American Congress, organized by Simon Bolivar in 1826 to promote unity among the newly independent nations of the Americas. Today, it remains one of the most iconic and photographed churches in the city, standing as a symbol of both religious faith and continental history.
- Location: Panama
- Top sights: Palacio de las Garzas · Panama Canal Museum · Casco Viejo, Panama
- Nearby: Chilibre (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 9 | 18 | 107 | 245 | 253 | 204 | 220 | 245 | 260 | 248 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís in Casco Viejo, Panama City, is open to visitors. The interior can be viewed, displaying simple yet impressive colonial architecture.
Typical hours
The church is usually open during the day, but hours may vary with services. Morning hours between 9 and 11 am are often good for a visit.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash. The simple facade and the small square in front are handy for atmospheric shots.
Time needed
Allow about 15-20 minutes for the church. Combined with a walk through Casco Viejo, you should budget at least two hours.
Combine with
The church is in the heart of Casco Viejo, surrounded by many other historic buildings. Combine your visit with Plaza de la Independencia and the Panama Viejo Museum.
Getting there
Casco Viejo is easily reachable from downtown Panama by taxi or bus. The church is a five-minute walk from Plaza de la Independencia.
Insider tip
Combine the church visit with a stop at a nearby bakery for a traditional Panamanian pastry. The area is especially atmospheric in the early evening.
Geography
Facts
- First built in 1673, current facade dates from 1918.
- Site of the 1826 Amphictyonic Congress of Panama.
- Located directly across from the National Theater.
- Features beautiful stained glass imported from Germany.
- The church's bell tower is a landmark of the Casco Antiguo skyline.
- Houses a small museum dedicated to the Franciscan order.
- Restored to its original brilliance in recent years.
- A key site for the study of 19th-century Latin American politics.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When can I visit the church?
The church is usually open during the day, except during services.
Is there an admission fee?
Admission is free, but a small donation for maintenance is appreciated.
Is the church easily accessible?
Yes, it is centrally located in Casco Viejo and accessible on foot.
How long does a visit take?
You should allow about 20 minutes for a visit.
Are there interesting artworks there?
Yes, the church houses several historical religious statues and altars.
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís: where is it located?
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís is located in Panama.
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís: what is there to see?
Highlights include Palacio de las Garzas, Panama Canal Museum, Casco Viejo, Panama.
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís: why is it worth visiting?
The Church of San Francisco de Asis is a historic gem located on Bolivar Plaza in Casco Antiguo.
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A large district in the north of Panama City.
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History & landmarks
Vasco Núñez de Balboa Statue
A statue honoring the discoverer of the Pacific.
Panama Handicraft Center
A place for traditional Panamanian crafts.
Palacio de las Garzas
The official residence of the President of Panama.
National Theatre of Panama
The country's most important opera and theatre building.
Balboa Monument
A monument dedicated to the explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa.
Iglesia de San José
A church in Casco Viejo, famous for its golden altar.
Palacio Municipal
The City Hall of Panama City in Casco Viejo.
Edificio Hatillo
A significant municipal government building.
More places
Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús
Former Jesuit church in the old town of Panama, Casco Viejo.
Interoceanic Canal Museum
Important museum in Casco Viejo about the history of the Panama Canal.
Ruins of the Santo Domingo Convent
Remains of the Dominican convent in Casco Viejo, Panama City.
Arco Chato
A famous flat brick arch in the ruins of the Santo Domingo convent.
Museum of History of Panama
Documents the history of the country from colonialism to the present day.
Museum of Colonial Religious Art
Houses works of art from the Spanish colonial period in Panama.
Fuerte San José
One of the historic defensive systems that once protected the bay of Panama.
Plaza Francia
A square rich in history in Casco Viejo, dedicated to the French canal builders.