Iglesia de Cristo a Orillas del Mar (Christ Episcopal Church), Colon

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Iglesia de Cristo a Orillas del Mar (Christ Episcopal Church), Colon

Iglesia de Cristo a Orillas del Mar (Christ Episcopal Church), Colon

Christ Episcopal Church, located just meters from the bay in Colón, is a historic and architectural gem, often referred to as "Christ Church by the Sea" due to its proximity to the water. Built between 1863 and 1864, it was designed by renowned New York architect James Renwick, who was known for his work on church buildings in the United States. The church's design follows the Victorian Gothic style, and it is constructed with local stones from the Bohío Soldado quarry. This iconic structure is not only a religious site but also a popular tourist attraction in Colón, drawing visitors from both the local community and abroad.

Throughout its history, the church has witnessed significant events, including the destruction of Colón by fire in 1885. Christ Episcopal Church was one of the few buildings that survived the blaze and was repurposed as a barracks, hospital, and shelter for the victims of the fire. It resumed its religious services later that year, continuing its role as a cornerstone of the community. Over the years, it has been home to several notable reverends, including the Reverend Edward J. Cooper, who served as the pastor for over three decades.

In 1965, Christ Episcopal Church was declared a Municipal Historical Monument by the Colón Municipal Council, recognizing its importance not only as a religious institution but also as the oldest building in Colón and the first significant Gothic Revival project in Central America.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Colon. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Iglesia de Cristo a Orillas del Mar (Christ Episcopal Church) on Map

Sight Name: Iglesia de Cristo a Orillas del Mar (Christ Episcopal Church)
Sight Location: Colon, Panama (See walking tours in Colon)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Colon, Panama

Create Your Own Walk in Colon

Create Your Own Walk in Colon

Creating your own self-guided walk in Colon is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Colon Introduction Walking Tour

Colon Introduction Walking Tour

Colón is one of the most fascinating places to explore in Panama—a city where history, culture, and nature intertwine in unexpected ways. Founded in 1850, it quickly became the Atlantic gateway for gold rush travelers headed to California. Later renamed to honor Columbus, the city grew on the swampy ground of Manzanillo Island, battling disease and harsh conditions from the start.

Its...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles