Herrera Province Travel Guides | Traditions, Culture & Nature

Today, Herrera proudly upholds its Spanish legacy, which is best evidenced by the province's famous festivals. In the town of Ocú, the patron saint festival is marked by the joyous parading of newlywed couples through the streets. In the town of Parita, the feast of Corpus Christi is celebrated with great merriment (and a large appetite) 40 days after Easter. In the town of Pesé, lively public re-enactments of the Last Supper, Judas's betrayal and Jesus's imprisonment are performed during the week preceding Easter. Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture and Spanish legacy of Herrera, a striking province renowned for its flurry of unforgettably colorful festivals. Coverage includes: Chitré and around, Ocú, San José.

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Chitré is the capital of Herrera Province, and it is the largest town on the Azuero Peninsula, founded in 1848. Many of the streets here ooze charm, yet on the whole Chitré isn't as picturesque as Pedasí. Many of its colonial buildings have been replaced by more utilitarian structures, and the downtown bustles with shops hawking cheap plastic goods and clothing. Chitré does offer plentiful services, including lodging and car rental, and it can be a convenient base for exploring the region. Visitors during Carnaval will find higher-quality lodging here than in Las Tablas, but this option is better for those with a rental vehicle (don't forget that Chitré is pretty lively, too, during Carnaval). Before arriving at Chitré, you'll pass through the tiny village of La Arena.

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This town two kilometers west of Chitré could be renamed Ceramics City. All along the main street that passes through the little town (pop. 6,429), which is practically a suburb of Chitré, are small shops selling the pottery this area is famous for throughout Panama. These include pots, mugs, ashtrays, plates, vases, pitchers, and so on. Entire tableware sets are sometimes available. The pottery is based on designs created by the indigenous residents of this area thousands of years ago. The most traditional piece is the tinaja, or pot, that was once used to store household water. These are used as decorative items all over Panama. One of the country's most famous painters, Sheila Lichacz, has made a career out of her pastel images of these tinajas.

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