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.
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.
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.
Looking at its Gothic spires, one would not think that San Sebastian is constructed of prefabricated steel. The story goes that the Augustinian Recollect Order, having seen their church thrice leveled to the ground by earthquakes, decided to have the new one cast in steel so that it would endure Manila's temblors. With its vaulted ceilings, jewel-like stained glass windows and generally romantic air, San Sebastian is understandably a much-favored venue for weddings.
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.
Every Filipino Catholic knows the image of the Virgin Mary enshrined in this church of the Redemptorist Order. Known as Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the Byzantine-like icon is the object of profound devotion every Wednesday, drawing thousands of supplicants from all walks of life. Stalls around the church do a thriving trade selling candles, rosaries, novenas and replicas of the icon, as well as food for the hungry. The teeming crowds snarl traffic for miles around; a nightmare that ordinary motorists would be well advised to avoid.
San Bartolome Church was originally built soon after Malabon was recognized as an independent parish in 1614. Although additions were made to the church at various times through the course of its existence, its current Greco-Roman design can be traced back to 1861 and is the work of Luciano Oliver. The ravages of World War II left the church in a state of despair, and would not be restored to its former glory until 1958. Today, the church is considered an architectural gem, with walls adorned in paintings hemmed by gold leaf, wood carvings, sculpture and other ecclesiastical art that spans the centuries. San Bartolome Church continues to serve as a place of worship, but attracts art and architecture buffs as well. Dedicated to the patron saint of the city, San Bartolome Church hosts joyful celebrations each year on the 24th August - the feast day of Saint Bartholomew the Apostle.
Looking at its Gothic spires, one would not think that San Sebastian is constructed of prefabricated steel. The story goes that the Augustinian Recollect Order, having seen their church thrice leveled to the ground by earthquakes, decided to have the new one cast in steel so that it would endure Manila's temblors. With its vaulted ceilings, jewel-like stained glass windows and generally romantic air, San Sebastian is understandably a much-favored venue for weddings.
Constructed by the Augustinian friars, the oldest religious order in the Philippines, this baroque church was originally called Nuestra Senora de Gracia (Our Lady of Grace), in honor of a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary housed inside. The architecture is marked by four Doric columns and leaf carvings above the main entrance. A big bell tower stands at the right side of the church. The sacristy is behind the apse, while a door at the left side of the altar leads out to an old cemetery.