Gloria Hernandez: Guardian of the legacy of the pinean hat

Panama October 26, 2025. - Since his age of 6, Gloria Hernandez, from the community of El Jobo, has learned the art of knitting drape hats, a tradition that has marked his life and today shares with pride with new generations.

His first hat was sold for 65 cents, without imagining that that would be the start of a path that would make him one of Panama's most representative artisan legacy bearers.

"I have learned to see my grandmother and my mother and his neighbours. They were my teachers," says Gloria, who today transmits that knowledge to his daughters, grandchildren and people inside and outside the country. With emotion his dedication has been recognized with the St. Joseph Medal and have been given an opportunity to travel to another continent representing Panama and the artisan who have been keeping this tradition alive.

The Hat Pintano, declared by the UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, requires patience and natural materials such as acrobat, chonta, seawater, cabouya or pita and white cane. "It all depends on the turns and style of every artisan," says Gloria, who points out that often the price does not reflect the effort invested in every piece.

"My hats are traditional. That art that God gave us is my economic entrance, and I thank them for the materials that come from our nature. We depend on no company, we have our own work," she expressed with pride.

With expert hands and an unwavering faith, Gloria Hernandez continues to knit not only hats but also the story of a cultural heritage that continues to inspire Panama and the world.