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.
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.
Housed within an accurate reconstruction of a 19th century Manila residence, Casa Manila gives you an glimpse into life back then. Each room is set up in period style and decorated with antique furniture chandeliers, lamps, paintings, vases and bric-a-brac. Starting from the kitchen on the top floor, walk down the adobe staircase past an old well and enjoy some reflective moments at the central courtyard and fountain.
Built over the palisade of the last king of pre-Hispanic Manila, Fort Santiago is steeped in history and still bears traces of the past. It was occupied by British forces for a two-year period in the 18th century and by American authorities after Spain surrendered the Philippines to the U.S.A in 1898. Destroyed during World War II, Fort Santiago was restored and labeled a "Shrine of Freedom" following a 1950 governmental decree. Fort Santiago contains many points of historical interest.
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.
The original San Miguel Church was constructed in 1630s as an act of gratitude by a Spanish governor-general who had miraculously escaped death on a military campaign. The church also ministered to Japanese Christians fleeing persecution under the Tokugawa Shogunate, and since many of these exiles belonged to the samurai, or warrior, class, the church was dedicated to Saint Michael, the dragon-slayer. The present church, notable for the beautiful symmetry of its twin bell towers, follows the mold of European Baroque architecture. Because of its proximity, the church is often associated with Malacanang Palace.
The U.S. maintains memorial cemeteries in various countries around the world. This sprawling 61.5-hectare plateau, where the remains of more than 17,000 American soldiers killed in the Philippines and New Guinea during World War II have been laid to rest, is the biggest of these cemeteries. The grand mix of white marble crosses radiating from a central chapel, freshly tended lawns, luxuriant greenery and towering trees creates a place of peace and tranquility. The south southeast side of the plateau yields a magnificent view of the countryside surrounding Metro Manila.
This monastery is where nuns of the Order of Saint Clare of Assisi (usually called Poor Clares) lead a life of prayer and contemplation, having renounced the world and earthly possessions. The church is a lovely cream-colored building that is very much in the mold of Spanish-built mission churches in California, U.S.A. Carrying on an old tradition, people often come here with offerings (usually eggs) and ask the saintly nuns to pray for good weather.