Panama, Casco Antiguo
Panama, Casco Viejo


Carlos Endara Andrade was the leading photographer of his time. He lived between 1865 and 1954 and is responsible for a big bunch of the pictures you know that are floating around the internet and other publications on Panama´s early days as a republic and surroundings (he did a lot on Taboga as well).   His portraits provide a window to the diverse Panamanian society of the times, which in many ways are the basis of today´s society.

Most of his collection was spread throughout private homes until Mario Lewis, who fell in love with his work, put it together with the valuable help of Endara´s heirs. He bought and restored to the detail the house that belonged to Endara and has turned it into a museum, which - finally!- is able to open its doors to the public.

The museum is one of the finest restorations I´ve seen in Casco Antiguo so far. Not only because of the attention to detail but, as Ariel Espino was saying in his speech last night - because it was made with love. A love that inspires everyone who visits and opens them to the experience of being in Panama back in 1903, 1910, 20´s...

To thank Mario for his vision and philantropy, the best of Panama gathered last night at its inauguration. The museum will open on Fridays and Saturdays and will be run by the Office of Casco Antiguo. Later on, they´ll try to open more days. If you are in Casco, don´t miss the opportunity to visit this amazing place at Calle 12.