San Jose Church (Iglesia San Jose)

The basics

Legend says that when Morgan sacked Panama Viejo, a priest daubed black oil on their golden altar to disguise its value. Today, that magnificent altar is the main draw at this small Casco Viejo church, an included stop on many historic district tours. The church has a single bell tower, a baroque interior, and three naves with stained-glass windows imported in the 1960s from Florence, Italy.

Things to know before you go

• There is no fee to enter the church.

• Donations go towards badly needed repairs and maintenance.

• Look for an altar to Saint Nicolas of Toledo on the right side of the church—some visitors seeking favors leave the names of deceased loved ones in a basket there.

How to get there

Casco Viejo is best explored on foot, as its narrow, cobblestone streets are ideal for leisurely strolls. If you’re coming to Casco Viejo via metro, the closest stop is the 5 de Mayo metro station, a 20-minute walk from San Jose Church. Rechargeable metro cards can be purchased at all metro stations.

When to get there

San Jose Church is open from 7am to 7pm every day. The most pleasant times to visit Casco Viejo are in the morning and evening when temperatures are relatively cool. Stick around the neighborhood into the evening, and you’ll see it come to life, as Casco Viejo is a major party destination for locals.

Things to do in Casco Viejo

This neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and no wonder—atmospheric Casco Viejo is full of landmarks. Key points of interest include the Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama City, the Museo del Canal (Canal Museum), the Panama National Theater, and Plaza Mayor, the main square. It’s also a great place to catch a sunset from one of Casco Viejo’s many rooftop bars.