Magellan's Cross: The Cross within a Cross

"This Cross of Tindalo Wood Encases the Original Cross Planted By Ferdinand Magellan On This Very Site, April 21, 1521."

These are the words engraved on a marble plank mounted on the foundation that erects the Magellan's Cross, so apparently the original cross is inside the wooden cross we see right now on the site. Truly, the cross within a cross.

This site is just off Church of Santo Niño de Cebu, about 5 meters from the church gates, and accross the Cebu City hall (correct me if I'm wrong).

Housed in a concrete structure, it is as well believed that the true cross may have been destroyed and was and is not really "in" the present cross vessel.

The structure that houses the cross

The stonework and steelwork is a beau

"The Cross of Magellan" plaque, circa 1941

The marble plank I was talking about

I was not really 'wowed' by the site until I took this (lol)

Hope to visit more of these historical sites! Go and explore the Philippines!

For more info and info credits: Wikipedia

Church of Santo Niño de Cebu: Oldest Church in the Philippines

This is another PhotoBlog of the churches I've been to. It was our last day in Cebu City (June 27, 2011), and we just had to visit the oldest church in the Philippines. I can't miss this one, this is like the mother of all Sto. Niño churches all over the archipelago.

Formally known as Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, founded in 1565 by Andrés de Urdaneta, an Augustinian priest. The style is obviously in baroque, with Muslim, Romanesque and neo-classical features, made with coral stones. The church was elevated by Pope Paul VI to a rank of minor basilica in 1965 and still remains under the Order of St. Augustine.

The church convent houses the image of the Santo Niño which is considered the oldest religious relic in the Philippines. This was the image that Magellan gave to Queen Juana as a gift during the baptism of King Humabon and his wife Queen Juana on 1521.

Architecture by Fr. Juan de Albarran

The grandiose facade

Below the horizon

The unknown structure in-front of the church

In twilight

The church is made of Coral stones

Light of a Million Mornings

Me lighting a candle

Next post, The Magellan's Cross.

Info credits and for more info: Basilica del Sto. Niño website and Wikipedia