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San Francisco de Asís Church

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Historical site
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San Francisco de Asís Church (Panama)

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The Church of San Francisco de Asís is one of the most magnificent religious landmarks in Panama City's historic Casco Viejo district. While its origins date back to the late 17th century, the church has endured a turbulent history of fires and neglect, leading to several reconstructions over the centuries. Its current striking appearance, featuring a bright white facade and dual bell towers, is largely the result of a comprehensive renovation completed in 1918. The interior is renowned for its ornate altars, beautiful stained-glass windows, and elegant neoclassical details that showcase Panamanian craftsmanship. Positioned right next to Plaza Bolívar, the church was once part of a larger Franciscan monastery complex that played a significant role in colonial administration. Its proximity to the waterfront adds to its charm, as it catches the Pacific breeze and glows under the afternoon sun. Today, San Francisco de Asís remains an active place of worship and a vital architectural monument, representing the spiritual endurance and cultural evolution of the Panamanian people within the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272728282827272727272727
Rain mm20918107245253204220245260248108

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
San Francisco de Asís Church is located directly on Bolivar Plaza and is usually open to the public. The interior is worth seeing; the exterior is freely accessible.
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Typical hours
The church typically opens late morning on weekdays, with a midday closure. Sundays and holidays may have different hours.
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Photography
Photography inside the church is allowed without flash - the ceiling paintings and altar are impressive. The facade with its stone details also has great shots.
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Time needed
A church visit takes about 20-30 minutes. If you take time to read about the multiple reconstructions, allow 40 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine the church visit with Bolivar Plaza and the National Theatre. The Mola Museum is also a short walk away.
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Getting there
The church is centrally located on Bolivar Plaza in Casco Viejo, reachable on foot from all other attractions. Taxis can drop you directly at the plaza.
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Insider tip
Notice the different architectural styles reflecting the multiple reconstructions after fires. Visit the church in the morning when light streams through the stained glass.

Geography

Coordinates
8.95270, -79.53320

Facts

  • The initial church structure was established in 1673 following the city's move.
  • Devastating fires in 1737 and 1756 forced the complete rebuilding of the site.
  • The current aesthetic is defined by the 1918 restoration led by Italian artists.
  • It was originally part of a Franciscan monastery that spanned several blocks.
  • The church features a set of eight intricately carved altars.
  • Its twin towers are a signature element of the Casco Viejo skyline.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Casco ViejoCasco Viejo<1 km · WExplore →
Cinta Costera PlaygroundCinta Costera Playground2 km · NExplore →
Ancón HillAncón Hill2 km · SExplore →
Estadio Rod CarewEstadio Rod Carew2 km · NEExplore →
National Zoo of PanamaNational Zoo of Panama3 km · SEExplore →
Bridge of the AmericasBridge of the Americas3 km · SExplore →
Torre Las AméricasTorre Las Américas4 km · NExplore →
Taboga Wildlife RefugeTaboga Wildlife Refuge4 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town San Francisco de Asís Church (3)

Panama Canal Museum📍 landmark

Museum about the canal's construction, located in a former French building.

Palacio de las Garzas📍 landmark

Presidential palace with a courtyard, named after the herons living there.

Casco Viejo, Panama📍 landmark

Historic district with colonial architecture, narrow streets, squares, and old buildings.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How old is this church?
It dates back to the 17th century but has been restored several times.
What is special about the façade?
The façade is a classic example of Spanish colonial architecture.
Can the church be visited daily?
Yes, during the day it is usually open to visitors.
Do you need admission?
Access is mostly free.
Is the church well signposted?
Yes, in Casco Viejo it is easy to find.
San Francisco de Asís Church: where is it located?
San Francisco de Asís Church is located in Panama.
San Francisco de Asís Church: what is there to see?
Highlights include Panama Canal Museum, Palacio de las Garzas, Casco Viejo, Panama.
San Francisco de Asís Church: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
San Francisco de Asís Church: why is it worth visiting?
The Church of San Francisco de Asís is one of the most magnificent religious landmarks in Panama City's historic Casco Viejo district.
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