Black Christ Festival, one of the most significant events on the Panamanian calendar, is only a few weeks away. In the vein of Mother Mary appearing on burnt toast and real tears on concrete statues, the festival celebrates a black, 8 foot tall Jesus Christ statue magically appearing centuries ago in the town of Portobelo.
Not only does the festival highlight the prevalence of Christian devotion in Panama, but it’s aesthetically mesmerising for onlooking travellers. Thousands of locals trek to Portobelo where the statue is still homed to pay their annual respects, with many crawling the last few kilometres on hands and knees. Team this with the purple velvet robes they’re adorning and this festival is one hell of a photo opp. Nat Geo, eat your heart out.
Photo found here.
SAVING FOR CUBA 