Nata

Overview

Introduction

Somewhat off the beaten track, Nata, Panama, is one of the oldest Spanish colonial towns in the country. The main reason for visiting this sleepy village, 85 mi/135 km west of Panama City, is to see its beautifully restored 16th-century church, the oldest in North America (construction started in 1522), which has been declared a national historic monument. Of special interest is the church's intricately carved wooden altar, which incorporates Amerindian motifs, such as feathered serpents and sculpted plants, with traditional Christian symbols.

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