Panamanian
culture is as rich as the history
of Panama. Starting from native Indian people to the colonial
era settlements to the present times of multi-race communities,
Panama has been a witness to varied cultures. And though Panamanian
culture is believed to have derived chiefly from European artistic,
literary and musical traditions brought to the land by the Spanish
during their 300 or so years of rule, the influence of the indigenous
cultures have been too strong to deny. North American culture
has been a significant influence especially in the Panama Canal
region. Consequently, what we see today in Panama is a cultural
fusion, a cultural mixed bag!
The hybrid Panamanian culture is well reflected in Panama
customs regarding their music, their dance, their festivities,
their literature and even in their cuisine.
Speaking of the ways of life, the co-existence of the many
influences in Panamanian culture is strongly evident in how
the people of Panama lead their lives. People inhabiting the
urban areas, particularly the Panama
Canal area (where the US army was based in the days when
the construction work of the Canal was under progress), lead
refined, sophisticated lives. Be it in the field of art, architecture,
music or sports, the cities represent a contemporary society
where the US influence is much-too apparent.
In contrast, the Panama countryside with its cattle ranches
and horses and Spanish folk songs, continues to be the stronghold
of Hispanic culture. The native people of Panama restricted
in the small land pockets here and there also continue to
contribute immensely to Panamanian culture. Thus, the netted
bags and beaded necklaces made by the Guaymí people
and the brightly embroidered textiles called Molas (made by
Kuna women) have brought Panama’s artwork and handicrafts
worldwide recognition. The epic poems (extending to some hundreds
or thousands of lines) of the Kuna people focus another aspect
of the Panamanian culture.
Dance and music are the other great examples of the happy
matrimony of diverse cultures in Panama. Thus, the traditional
dance Tamborito introduced by the Spanish invaders borrows
steps and rhythms from native dance forms. The influence of
Afro-Caribbean music and that of other popular local music
like salsas cannot be missed. Though Spanish is the preferred
language for compositions, the themes, plots and even characters
have their roots steeped in the colorful Panamanian culture.
The many festivities held year-round in Panama like the Carnaval
or carnival, Festival of the Black Christ, Fair of Azuero,
Semana Santa (or Easter Week), too uphold the land’s
cultural diversity. Most of the festivals are excellent blending
of Pagan and Catholic beliefs and rituals.
The diversity in Panamanian culture is evident in far too
many ways than you would expect. Tours
of the museums will surely help you but then you will need
to read about Panama’s history, visit places of historic
importance, talk to the people of Panama, taste varied cuisines
served here, know about the religion of Panama and even be
part of festivities to best appreciate Panama’s blended
culture.
For more information about Panama's culture and Panama vacation
and travel, please contact
us.
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