Sights in Chitré
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Parque Nacional Sarigua
This small national park is arguably the most important Pre-Columbian site in Panama - the Sarigua site has been dated back 11,000 years based on shell mounds and pottery fragments. In contrast to many of Panama's other national parks, this is not the place to encounter lush forests or abundant wildlife. The desert-like wasteland exists as a sad and potent reminder of the future of Panama if greed wins out over environmental responsibility.
The park was once dry tropical rainforest and coastal mangrove. Sarigua is the end product of slash-and-burn agriculture. People moved into the area, cut down all the trees, set fire to the debris, planted crops for a few harvests and …
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Museo de Herrera
This anthropology and natural history museum contains many well-preserved pieces of pottery dating from 5000 BC until the time of the Spanish conquest. Some of the pieces that were found at the excavation sites outside Parita are here, although most of those artifacts are on display at the anthropology museum in Panama City.
Also on display are replicas of huacas (golden objects placed with indigenous peoples at the time of burial) found on the peninsula, as well as numerous photos of archeologists at work and maps showing where the pottery and huacas were found. Be sure to visit the museum's 2nd floor, where you'll find photos of Azuero residents, authentic folkloric cos…
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Cathedral
The city's soaring cathedral dates from the 18th century, but was substantially re-modeled in 1988. Today, the entire ceiling is made of polished mahogany, the walls are adorned with near-life-size figures of saints and large, vivid stained-glass windows depict momentous events in the life of Jesus, and the stations of the cross are marked by 4m teak crosses and intricately carved figurines. Unlike many cathedrals that impress through ostentation, this one is striking for its elegant simplicity and fine balance of gold and wood.
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Ceramica Calderón
This is the best of La Arena's pottery factories. You can buy traditional painted ceramics at wholesale prices. The pottery is made by hand on the premises in a workshop directly behind the roadside showroom. The artisan who makes most of the ceramics is Angel Calderón - he's been at it for almost 50 years. If you visit his shop, take a look at the impressive ovens out back.
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