La Pollera, the Panamanian woman's national costume, originated in the Andalucia region of Spain.
Since my arrival in Panama City a few weeks ago I have had several opportunities to catch glimpses of Panama's traditional cultures. I was fortunate to be here during the month of November when there are several national holidays related to Panamanian independence.
Devil figure at park gate.
In a local park I attended what was billed as a Typical Evening – it included Panamanian music and dancing, as well as sales of handicrafts and food. A few days later I went to a convention centre for a charity fundraiser hosted by staff of the embassies of various countries. Panamanian culture was on display here too along with those of other countries – disappointingly Canada was not represented.
Invitation to community.
A tamal is a corn based dough with many possible fillings that is wrapped in corn, banana or plantain leaves and steamed. The tamal has been traced back over 7000 years in Mesoamerica.
Another interesting experience was Treasures of Panama, a tour of the Reprosa factory that was established in 1975 to preserve pre-Colombian designs by reproducing them in jewelry and other decorative items.
Production of silver jewelry using lost wax casting technique.
Golden frogs. The frog was a good omen in pre-Columbian Panama.
Gold jewelry in pre-Columbian designs for purchase in factory shop.
Kuna or Guna women setting up roadside stall to sell molas.
One of the most common representations of Panamanian culture is mola, designs in fabric created by the women of the indigenous Kuna or Guna tribe. Mola is a reverse applique technique done as brightly coloured squares of fabric that are sewn together to make women's blouses. It is based on traditional body painting designs. Molas, either as the basic squares or made into a variety of items, are for sale in many places in Panama.
Colourful mola items make great gifts.
Traditional palm house on the grounds of Panama City's Biomuseo.
Finally, on my visit to the Biomuseo, subject of a previous entry, I enjoyed sitting for a few minutes in the cool interior of a traditional Panamanian palm house.