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Manila Cathedral, or the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica, is situated in the district of Intramuros, City of Manila. Originally, this church was the "Church of Manila," which was established under the management of the Diocese of Mexico in 1571, but in 1579 it became a separate diocese. Been here several times, but it's my first time seeing the stunning golden lights on its structure after dark.
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| Photo of Guadalupe Church. |
The Paco Park, originally known as the Cementerio General de Dilao, is a recreational garden area and served as Manila's municipal cemetery during the Spanish colonial period. This structure was built in the 18th century and was completed in 1822. Its original design was to be a municipal cemetery for the influential and aristocratic Spanish families living in Manila and Intramuros, but it also served as a peaceful dwelling place for those victims of the cholera epidemic.
Standing proudly within Intramuros, the old walled city of Manila, Fort Santiago is a powerful reminder of the Philippines’ colonial history and the resilience of its people. Built in the late 1500s by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi, this fortress once served as a defense stronghold, a military prison, and a silent witness to centuries of struggle and triumph. As you step through its iconic gate and walk along its stone paths, you’ll find yourself transported to an era where courage, faith, and patriotism shaped the nation’s soul.
Jump to: | About San Sebastian Church | History | Architecture | How to Get There | Mass Schedule | Travel Tips | Nearby Attractions | Where to Stay | Summary
San Sebastian Church, also known as the Basilica Minore de San Sebastian, stands majestically in Quiapo, Manila. This Roman Catholic Basilica is the only all-steel church in Asia and one of the few in the world, making it a true architectural gem and a symbol of Filipino craftsmanship and resilience.
Jump to: | About Manila Cathedral | History | Architecture | How to Get There | Mass Schedule | Travel Tips | Nearby Attractions | Where to Stay | Related Posts
Located at the heart of Intramuros, Manila, the Manila Cathedral — officially known as the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception — stands as one of the most important religious and historical landmarks in the Philippines. Serving as the premier church of the Archdiocese of Manila, it has long been a place of worship, reflection, and national pride.
San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases remarkable Baroque architecture. Built in 1607, it has withstood wars, earthquakes, and the test of time, making it a living testament to the country’s colonial past and deep Catholic faith. Its intricate facade, grand interiors, and historical significance continue to draw pilgrims, tourists, and history enthusiasts from around the world.
Jump to: | About the Museum | Top Highlights | How to Get There | Exhibits and Galleries | Travel Tips | Nearby Attractions | Related Posts
The National Museum of Natural History, located within the National Museum Complex in Rizal Park, Manila, is one of the Philippines’ most breathtaking architectural and cultural landmarks. Officially opened to the public in 2018, it showcases the country’s extraordinary biodiversity and natural treasures — from rare fossils and endemic species to lush forest and marine ecosystems.
Located inside the historic Rizal Park (Luneta) is the Chinese Garden, a peaceful sanctuary that captures the grace and harmony of traditional Chinese culture. Designed with intricate pavilions, stone bridges, koi ponds, and lush greenery, this garden offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle. Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or a quiet wanderer, the Chinese Garden invites you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the beauty of Asian artistry and nature combined.
The National Planetarium in Manila is a fascinating destination for science enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Located within Rizal Park, it offers engaging exhibits, astronomy shows, and immersive dome projections that bring the wonders of the universe closer to visitors of all ages.
The Baluarte de San Diego is a historical site and the oldest stone fort in Manila. Built in 1586, it was called the Nuestra Señora de Guia, designed by Jesuit priest Antonio Sedeno. Fell into disrepair and was renovated in 1593. Incorporated as part of the walls, but was later abandoned due to its unstable foundations. The new structure was constructed with orillons (curved corners) masking cannons on the flanks. Destroyed during the British invasion in 1762. Repaired and renovated in 1764. The American Army ordnance section was built on-site during the American occupation. Destroyed during World War 2, and is now a major tourist attraction of the Intramuros Walled City.
Fort Santiago is one of the historical landmarks inside Intramuros. It's a fortress that is a part of the structures of the Walled City. This historical structure was first built by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi for the newly founded City of Manila. This fort is the most important historical sites in Manila as Dr. Jose Rizal was imprisoned here before he was executed in 1896.
Jump to: | About Quiapo Church | History | How to Get There | What to See | Feast of the Black Nazarene | Nearby Attractions | Travel Tips | Related Posts
Quiapo Church, officially known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or Basilica Menor del Nazareno Negro, is one of the most iconic religious landmarks in the City of Manila. Situated at the heart of Plaza Miranda in the district of Quiapo, this centuries-old church is a revered pilgrimage site known for housing the miraculous image of the Black Nazarene — a life-sized, dark-skinned statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross.
Jump to: | About Sta. Cruz Church | History | How to Get There | What to See | Nearby Attractions | Travel Tips | Related Posts
Sta. Cruz Church, officially known as the Our Lady of the Pillar Parish, is one of the most historic and well-preserved churches in Manila. Located at the bustling intersection of Rizal Avenue and Carriedo Street, this Baroque-style church has long been a spiritual refuge for residents and visitors of the area. It serves as a gateway landmark between Quiapo and Binondo — two of the city’s oldest districts.
Jump to: | About Malate Church | History | How to Get There | What to See | Nearby Attractions | Travel Tips | Related Posts
Malate Church, officially known as the Our Lady of Remedies Parish (Nuestra Señora de los Remedios), is one of the most iconic and historic churches in Manila. Located along MH Del Pilar Street, just a short walk from Manila Bay, this Baroque-style church has been a spiritual refuge for locals and visitors since the 16th century.
Jump to: | About Sta. Ana Church | Historical Background | How to Get There | What to See | Nearby Attractions | Travel Tips | Related Posts
Sta. Ana Church, officially known as the Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned, is one of the oldest and most beautifully preserved Baroque churches in Manila. Built during the early 18th century, this sacred landmark stands along New Panaderos Street in the district of Santa Ana, a place once considered a riverside town outside the walled city of Intramuros.
Jump to: | About Binondo Church | Historical Background | How to Get There | What to See | Nearby Attractions | Travel Tips | Related Posts
Binondo Church, officially known as the Minor Basilica of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, is one of Manila’s oldest and most historically significant churches. Located in the heart of Binondo — the world’s oldest Chinatown — this centuries-old structure stands as a testament to the enduring faith of Filipino-Chinese Catholics and the deep cultural ties between Christianity and Chinese heritage in the Philippines.
Today is a boring day! Question is: "Anu ang magandang gawin kapag wala kang magawa?" Sagot: " Pinturahan ang buong bahay gamit ang cutix." Pero wala akong cutix. So, after washing my clothes, without itinerary, my initial plan was to visit all the museums in Metro Manila including, Ayala Museum in Makati City, but the plan ended up visiting Marikina Shoe Museum (with 50 pesos entrance) and the two buildings of the National Museum of the Philippines with FREE Admission. Libre, aarte kapa?? Tara na!!
You might be thinking about the location where this photo was taken; I have no money to travel abroad, so it's not from ancient Greece or Rome. It is one of the tourist spots and must must-visit attraction in Manila. Okay, it is from Intramuros or the "Walled City," one of the sites that has significance in Philippine history. I was captivated by the Intramuros Open House in Celebration of World Tourism Day. Entrance fees are free on three of the must-visit spots inside the walled city; these are Fort Santiago, Baluarte de San Diego, and Casa Manila. Not only that, but there are also free bicycle tours at Plaza Roma, and a picnic with performance grounds, food, and art at Baluarte de San Diego.
The National Museum of the Philippines offers FREE Admission on selected months as part of the Heritage Month celebration. For updates, please check the National Museum Facebook Page. The National Museum has a collection of relics, artifacts, and antiques discovered in the Philippines and abroad, combined for the Filipino viewing.