Molo Church: The Feminist Gothic Church of Iloilo City

The Molo Church is located in Molo District, Iloilo City, and it is commonly known as the St. Anne Parish. This historical church was built in 1831 by the Ilonggo artists with a touch of Gothic-Renaissance architecture. Take note, is the only one outside Manila, so it's proof that the locals are really great in terms of the arts. It is made from coral stones with egg whites mixed with sand for some parts. On August 4, 1886, Dr. Jose Rizal visited Manila from exile in Dapitan to pray, and he saw the gorgeous paintings (today, they no longer exist).

Jaro Cathedral: Iloilo’s Iconic Roman Catholic Landmark

The Jaro Cathedral is located in the Jaro District, Iloilo. It is another example of the country's historical church with baroque architecture. Built in 1864, the cathedral was erected by order of Mariano Cuartero, the first bishop of Jaro. In 1948, this structure was destroyed by an earthquake and was restored in 1956 by the order of the first archbishop, Jose Ma. Cuenco. The famous orator Graciano Lopez Jaena was baptized in this church. In 1976, the National Historical Institute proclaimed this church a Historical Landmark.

Guimbal Church: A Timeless Heritage Landmark in Iloilo

The Guimbal Church is located by the highway of Guimbal, Iloilo, and can easily be recognized because of its unique façade. After I visited Miag-Ao Church, I traveled for around 30 minutes to this church. According to my research, this historical church is also known as the St. Nicholas of Tolentino Church and doesn’t have any record of when it was erected or established. However, it was completed between 1769 and 1774 under Friar Juan Campos. In 1893, it was further enlarged but was later destroyed by fire during the Revolution from 1896 to 1898.

Iloilo Travel Guide – Best Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Budget

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About Iloilo

Iloilo is a province in Western Visayas known for its Spanish-era churches, heritage houses, vibrant festivals like Dinagyang, and world-class cuisine. Dubbed as the “City of Love,” Iloilo City is a gateway to both history and coastal escapes. Whether you're after architecture, food, or beaches — Iloilo has it all.

Miagao Church - Things You Need To Know

Commonly known as the Church of Sto. Tomas de Villanueva is an old baroque church in Iloilo. Miagao Church is one of the world-famous baroque churches in the Philippines, and it has become one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The construction of this church began in 1787 under Fray Francisco M. Gonzales. O.S.A. was the parish priest of Miag-ao, and Domingo Libo-on was the Gobernadorcillo. The Church was completed in 1797 and served as a fortress against the Muslim Raiders. In 1898, this church was destroyed during the revolution, but it was rebuilt.

Important Details About San Jose Church, Iloilo City

San Jose Church is the first church in Iloilo, built by the Jesuits around 1607.  But, on April 29, 1617, the Augustinians established San Jose, a house of the order. It was saved from being bombed by the Americans during World War II.  As the years went by, some renovations were made. READ: Location, How to Get Here, My Solo-Backpacking in Negros Occidental and Iloilo

Important Details About Tigbauan Church

It is believed that there had been no parish priest when Tigbauan Church was established, but it could be between 1575 and 1580 when F. Luis de Montoya was assigned as Prior. This church underwent a lot of repairs because of natural disasters like earthquakes. The repair was done by different people who served as church leaders. After Miag-ao and Guimbal, around 6 PM, we passed by this historical church. I had already paid my fare to Ilo-Ilo City, but I was amazed by the church's facade, so I immediately got off the jeepney and had a very short visit. In front is an open plaza just a few meters from Tigbauan Municipal Hall.

My Solo-Backpacking in Capiz, Antique, Guimaras, and Ilo-Ilo

Day 1 - Itinerary: Manila to Roxas Airport:

• I rode in a tricycle from Roxas Airport to my first destination - Panay Church. Travel Time: 23 minutes. Fare: 200 pesos. ETA: 7:30 AM.
• Upon arrival, I easily felt the cool and fresh air blowing.
• I also noticed an event banner hanging by the side of the church; thus, with respect, I did not check the entire part of the Panay Church, including the largest bell on top. However, I stayed in the area for an hour and thirty minutes.
• Had my breakfast at 7-11, in front of the church, while starring on its gorgeous facade.

Centuries Old Churches in Negros Occidental and Iloilo

 This Lenten season, one of the cultural practices by some of the Filipinos is Visita Iglesia or visiting several churches. Here are some of the Centuries Old Churches in Negros Occidental and Ilo-Ilo. Let's start with Miag-ao Church, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1787 while Fray Francisco M. Gonzales. O.S.A. was the parish priest of Miag-ao and Domingo Libo-on  was the Gobernadorcillo. The Church was completed in 1797 and it served as the fortress against Muslim Raiders. During revolution, this church was destroyed but was rebuilt. Like other heritage churches, it was damaged by fire and earthquake. Restoration work began in 1960 and was completed in 1962.