Panama City is home to a vibrant and diverse Jewish community. Over the years, several synagogues have been established, offering religious and community services for the different streams of Judaism. Here’s a guide to the main synagogues in the city, with information about their locations, how to get there, and prayer schedules.
1. Shevet Ahim Synagogue (Sephardic Community)
- Location: Calle 54 Este, Marbella, Panama City.
- How to Get There: Located in the heart of the city, you can easily reach it from Vía España or Vía Brasil. Several bus routes pass through Marbella, or you can use taxi services and ride-hailing apps.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit (morning): 6:30 am (Monday to Friday), 8:00 am (Shabbat and Sunday)
- Mincha (afternoon): 5:30 pm (may vary by season)
- Arvit (evening): After Mincha
- Description: The Sephardic community in Panama has a rich history, and Shevet Ahim is an important spiritual center for Sephardic Jews. It offers classes, cultural events, and community activities.
2. Beth El Synagogue (Ashkenazi Community)
- Location: Calle 58, Obarrio, Panama City.
- How to Get There: It is located near the financial district of Obarrio. You can take the metro to Iglesia del Carmen station and walk a few minutes. It is also accessible by taxi or buses.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit: 7:00 am (Monday to Friday), 9:00 am (Shabbat and Sunday)
- Mincha and Arvit: Times vary by season, but Mincha is generally around 6:00 pm.
- Description: Beth El is an Ashkenazi synagogue known as a central place for Jews of European origin in Panama. It offers educational programs and social events for all ages.
3. Ahavat Sion Synagogue (Syrian Community)
- Location: Calle 57 Este, Obarrio, Panama City.
- How to Get There: Very close to Beth El Synagogue, Ahavat Sion is in the same Obarrio neighborhood. You can get there by taking the metro to Iglesia del Carmen station or by bus via Vía España.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit: 7:15 am (Monday to Friday), 8:30 am (Shabbat and Sunday)
- Mincha and Arvit: 6:00 pm (varies by season)
- Description: This synagogue serves the Syrian Jewish community, with roots in Aleppo, Syria. It’s a vibrant place with a strong cultural heritage and a warm communal atmosphere.
4. Chabad Panama Synagogue
- Location: Punta Pacifica, Panama City.
- How to Get There: Punta Pacifica is one of the city’s most exclusive areas. The synagogue is within walking distance from the Multiplaza shopping mall. You can get there by taxi or bus via Vía Brasil and then walk or take a short ride.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit: 8:00 am (every day)
- Mincha and Arvit: Times vary but generally around 6:30 pm.
- Description: Chabad is known for its warm and welcoming approach to both locals and tourists. They offer a variety of educational programs, Shabbat events, and holiday celebrations for the entire Jewish community, regardless of background.
5. Kol Shearith Israel Synagogue (Reform Movement)
- Location: Calle 45, Bella Vista, Panama City.
- How to Get There: Located near Casco Viejo and the Cinta Costera, you can easily access it from Vía España. It’s a very central synagogue, accessible by public transportation.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Kabbalat Shabbat (Friday night): 6:30 pm
- Shabbat Shacharit: 10:00 am
- Description: Kol Shearith Israel is the largest Reform synagogue in Panama, with a diverse and open community. It’s a place where the liberal values of Judaism meet tradition.
| Tips for Visiting Synagogues: Contact in advance: Many synagogues require visitors to register or inform them beforehand if they wish to attend services. It’s recommended to contact the synagogue directly. Dress code: Dress respectfully. For men, wearing a kippah is mandatory in most synagogues, and for women, modest attire is recommended. Security: Synagogues in Panama have security measures in place. You may need to present identification upon entering. |
Each synagogue in Panama has its own identity, but they all share a commitment to strengthening Jewish and spiritual life in the city.