Panama Culture

Panama, as a meeting point in the history of the countries of Latin America, is a country forged by various cultures and traditions that come together to create a unique complexity and exotic environment. The country’s ethnic diversity is reflected in the traditional products such as remarkable woodcarvings, interesting ceremonial masks and pottery, as well as its architecture, delectable cuisine, and lively festivals.

Will all these interesting information about Panama, have you ever wonder how Panama culture started? Well, so am I, so let’s take a look at how.

 The Panama culture is derived from European music, art, and traditions that were brought over by the Spanish who first came to Panama. Hegemonic forces have created hybrid forms of this by blending African and Native American culture with European culture. For example, the tamborito, a traditional dance descended from Spanish folkways, still it incorporates native rhythms, themes, and dance steps.

To come and observe for yourself the Panama culture, you will be amazed by the indigenous and European culture combined to create a country beyond compare. As mentioned above, Panama’s architecture is a reflection of the different groups that made their home there. However, the Kuna Yala region, home to the Kuna Indians- Native Americans, with their traditional huts stands in contrast to the stylish homes built by Swiss, Yugoslavian, Swedish, American, and German immigrants in the styles distinctive to their respective countries.

But, there is one very fascinating account about Panama culture of the Kuna that you must find interesting.  This culture remained mostly unchanged. Today, the Kuna live much like their ancestors did many years ago. This is because until lately, they were mostly left alone. The Kuna are a close community that has strong ties to their families, community, and simple ways of life. Their society is matriarchal, which means that family ties are passed from the mother’s side of the family. In a society like that, women have an important place in their community. For example, after marriage, the newly married man must live on his wife’s family’s home. While there, he has to work for his wife’s family.

The most interesting part is that, Kuna have specific work for men and women. Men gather food, make clothes for himself and his sons, weave baskets, and care wooden utensils. On the other hand, women prepared food, make clothing for themselves and their daughters, and keep their home clean. In other words, fair share of responsibilities. Sounds very fair, doesn’t it?

If you want the best overview of Panama culture, you can find them in the Museum of the Panamanian located in downtown Panama City. Its collection keeps a record of the evolution of human life on the isthmus from the earliest native settlements to the present. It’s worth checking out. Don’t you think so?