With virtually the whole of Intramuros destroyed during World War II, this is the only remaining repository of the wealth that was once a common feature of Manila's churches. Formerly a monastery, the museum comprises two floors interconnected by a grand staircase. The various rooms and hallways display paintings, santos (religious statues, usually of carved wood or ivory), gold and silver ornaments, liturgical vestments, chests, and altars. It is an artistic treasure house that illustrates the richness of Philippine history and culture.
Constructed between 1587 to 1607, San Agustin Church is the oldest surviving stone church in the Philippines. It was the only structure which endured the damages sustained by Intramuros in 1945. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a must-see destination for any Manila visitor interested in history and culture. Concealed behind the imposing facade is an elaborately decorated Baroque-style interior. Throughout the nave and side chapels are fixtures of great artistic and historical significance. A museum is also located on the premises.
One of the most prominent cultural institutions in the Philippines, the National Museum of the Philippines is a treasure trove of heritage and history. It comprises several museums, each of which focuses on a different aspect and offers a fascinating glimpse at the Philippines' historical and cultural treasures. The displays and exhibits provide a deeper insight into the natural history and culture of the country while also disseminating information regarding anthropology, archaeological discoveries, and ethnography. Additionally, visitors can admire Filipino fine art here.
This was a European-style medieval fortified city that functioned as the seat of the Spanish government from 1571 to 1898. The massive walls stretch for a few kilometers, enclosing a 64-hectare (158-acre) area once occupied by palaces, churches, monasteries, schools and wealthy residences. Having sustained damages in the past, the walled city has persevered and is visited by many. Most of the walls, gates and bulwarks have been restored, affording visitors a glimpse into the past.
Also known as Luneta Park, Rizal Park is often hailed as the symbolic seat of the nation's heart and soul. A beautiful green space, the park encompasses over 60 hectares (148 acres) of land area, its landscape studded with gardens, wooded areas and open spaces. It draws crowds from all walks of life. Points of interest include the Rizal Monument, the Site of Rizal's Martyrdom, the central pool and fountains, the Chinese Garden and Japanese Garden, and a huge relief map showing the whole Philippine archipelago. The National Library and National Museum are next door.
Initially founded in 1571, The Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, or Manila Cathedral, is steeped in history. Over the years, it has undergone several changes. The present Romanesque edifice incorporates stone carvings and rosette windows salvaged from the ruins of previous structures and is topped by a cupola that is a picture of strength and beauty.
Opened in the mid-1960s, this memorial park brought the (then) novel concept of having sprawling grassy knolls and pleasant promenades amid the tombstones, thereby banishing the sinister and forlorn atmosphere of cemeteries. An aviary, a plant nursery, a lagoon teeming with fish, flower markets in the vicinity and beautiful landscaping enable visitors to reflect and enjoy. Weekends especially give the park a holiday feeling with families sitting on the grass, reading, resting, or strumming a guitar. Not surprisingly, this is where the affluent bury their departed.
A distinctive feature of the Manila skyline, the green-and-white gothic spires of the churches of this powerful and influential religious group are as familiar a sight to Filipinos as McDonald's golden arches. Iglesia ni Cristo (also known as INC) has a big following in Manila and throughout the country. The churches, unlike the humbler structures of other Christian denominations, always sport a fresh coat of paint.
The Intramuros Administration oversees the historical sites within the walled city of Intramuros. Tourists are welcome to visit the administration's offices and library on the fifth floor of the Palacio del Gobernador (Governor's Palace), but do not let the grand-sounding name mislead you. Though the building stands on the site of the Palacio del Gobernador, it is not a reconstruction of the governor-general's residence which was demolished by an earthquake in 1863. A detailed history of the site is engraved on a marker in front of the building.
Museo ng Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is located in the premises of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the Central Bank of Philippines. This museum is where you will find a complete history of money in the country, with coins, notes, artefacts and documents being featured in the permanent collection. The museum gives a comprehensive overview of the economic history of Philippines.
Founded in 1960, this museum contains an eminent collection of Filipino modern art plus old maps, rare books, invaluable letters of Dr. Jose Rizal and Chinese Ming Dynasty porcelain. The museum is a real treasure-trove of history and art. Among the modern works is Anita Magsaysay Ho's In the Market Place, which set a record price for a Southeast Asian painting at a Christie's auction in Singapore.