Natá - Explore This Historical Church With Us

Natá, Coclé Province, Panamá, S.A.
Story by Wendy Brausam & Tamara Rowe
Photos by Wendy Brausam
www.UncoverPanama.com

On a pleasant half day adventure from Penonomé, (the halfway point in Panamá, S.A. between Costa Rica to the northwest and Columbia to the southeast), our first stop is a visit to the famous Inglesia de Natá, one of the oldest churches in Panamá.

The town of Natá, named after an indigenous chief, is located approximately 36 km (map). southwest of Penonomé on the Interamerican highway and was one of the earliest settlements in Panamá.  The church was originally completed in 1522 and has undergone extensive restorations.  A surprising discovery in 1995, while restoring the floor, was the remains of three people. Their identities remain a mystery. 

The present day structure still contains the original columns that support the church’s roof made of hardwood from the níspero tree found in Bocus del Toro Province.  One thing to look for when visiting the church is the hand carving at the Altar of the Virgin which details fruit, leaves and feathered serpents.

If you like a challenge, cautiously climb the steep, narrow stairs that open out into the steeple.  Watch out for the pigeons!  The view is fantastic but quite breezy.   Make sure you bring your camera because the view is truly worth the climb. 

Providing employment for many locals is the Nestlé plant located in the west end of town beside the Interamerican highway.  Unlike the car filled company parking lots in North America, the lot at Nestlé is filled mainly with bicycles.

If you’re travelling through Coclé Province in Panamá, it’s definitely worth a visit to this example of Panamanian history.

Thanks for sharing our adventure.  Now, let’s see, where to next?
Tamara & Wendy
www.UncoverPanama.com