Manila Cathedral: A Basilica for the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Philippine's rich history depicts not only independence but also the rise from a fall. A perfect example of this is the Manila Cathedral. This is the second, and last, place of worship that we visited on Independence day.

Formally known as the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica or the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a Minor Basilica of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila located in Intramuros, Manila. Erected in 1954. Completed 1958. The cathedral's history dates back to 1581, 6 constructions, 1 typhoon, 1 fire, 4 earthquakes and 1 bombing. The old structures are destroyed but the church withstood the fall. The basilica is in Neo-Romanesque style.

The tower in contrast

By Architect Fernando Ocampo

Famous saints sculpted in Roman travertine stones

A perfect venue for weddings

Inscriptions on the tympanum of the main door

The Portal by Italian A. Monteleone and F. Nagni

Stained glass by Galo Ocampo

Light seeping through the iron wrought grills

Rays of light over the bronze carvings on the church's main portal

Fray Juan de Uguccioni designed the Cathedral Dome (not in the photo)

The magnificent facade

Awesome structures like these, with historical value and cultural relevance are all over our archipelago. Visit one, you'll see, you'll be transported back in time and be amazed and proud!

Info credits: Wikipedia and Manila Cathedral website.

San Agustin Church: Wedding Capital of the Philippines

The Philippine Independence Day (June 12th) brought back so many things apart form the history and culture of the Filipinos. It did brought us back in time, a blast from the past, courtesy of our very own world renowned places of worship. First of which is the UNESCO World Heritage site, designated in 1993 under Spanish colonial church classification, the San Agustin Church.

Founded by the Augustinian Friars (Order of Saint Augustine) in 1571. The beautiful Roman Catholic church, in baroque style, is located in Intramuros, Manila. Erected in 1586. Completed in 1607. Apart from being known as the "Wedding Capital of the Philippines", it is also known for it's museum that is open for the public, but for a fee.

Here are the pictures that I took during our travel.

The facade to die for

By Architect Juan Macias

The church and the museum

Charming contrasts

A Trompe-l'œil ceiling by Italian C. Alberoni and G. Dibella

The second, and last, church during our walk in Intramuros is the Manila Cathedral, until the next post!

Info credits: Wikipedia and San Agustin Church website