Museo Afroantillano de Panamá
About This Museum
Tucked away on a quiet street in Panama City, this museum tells a story many visitors never hear: that over 20,000 Antillean workers, primarily from Barbados and Jamaica, were the backbone of the monumental canal construction. Housed in a charmingly restored wooden building that was once a Christian mission, it feels like stepping into a different era. Inside, you'll find a deeply personal collection of photographs, tools, and household items that belonged to these migrant families. It’s a poignant tribute to the often-overlooked community whose sweat and sacrifice literally shaped modern Panama.
Collection Highlights
Look for the stark black-and-white photos of laborers facing the Culebra Cut and the simple, well-worn medical kit used by a canal doctor. One of the most moving exhibits is a recreated early 20th-century bedroom, giving you a tangible sense of their modest living conditions.
Visitor Information
It's a small museum, so you can easily take it all in within an hour. It's located just off Central Avenue in the Calidonia neighborhood—keep an eye out for the distinctive wooden structure.
Architecture & Building
A beautiful example of early 20th-century Caribbean vernacular architecture, featuring a raised foundation, clapboard siding, and large windows designed to catch the breeze.
Contact & Location
Address: Museo Afroantillano, Calle 24, Calidonia, Panamá, Calidonia, Distrito de Panamá, Provincia de Panamá, 0843, Panamá
Phone: +507 501-4131
Website: Visit Website
