Why pilgrims come
A sacred place worth the journey.
The Church of San Felipe preserves Panama’s Black Christ of Portobelo, center of an intense annual October pilgrimage shaped by Afro-Panamanian faith and history.
TraditionCatholic
The pilgrim’s guide
What makes this visit meaningful
Approach Portobelo through the devotion of pilgrims who come on foot to the Black Christ. The image, church and Caribbean history form one inseparable pilgrimage story.
01
The Black Christ
Venerate the dark wooden Nazareno carried in Panama’s great October devotion.
02
Pilgrimage promises
Understand the arduous journeys and acts of thanksgiving made by devotees.
03
Afro-Panamanian Catholic heritage
Place the devotion within the faith and historical experience of Panama’s Caribbean communities.
Feasts & celebrations
Feast of the Black Christ of PortobeloThousands of pilgrims converge on Portobelo; verify transportation, liturgy and safety plans.