Intramuros is a historic walled city located in the heart of Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. It was built by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century as a military fortress and served as the seat of Spanish colonial power for over three centuries. Today, Intramuros is a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the Philippines.
One of the must-see attractions in Intramuros is Fort Santiago. This fort was built by Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi, in 1571 and served as the headquarters of the Spanish military in the Philippines. It was also used as a prison during the Spanish colonial period, and some of the Philippines' most famous heroes, including Jose Rizal, the national hero, were imprisoned here. The fort has been restored and now houses a museum that showcases the history of the Philippines, including its colonial past and its struggle for independence.
Another important attraction in Intramuros is the San Agustin Church. This church is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and one of the four baroque churches in the country that have been designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The church was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines. The church houses a museum that showcases its rich history, including the intricate wooden carvings and the religious artifacts on display.
The Cathedral of Manila, also known as the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, is another must-visit destination in Intramuros. This cathedral was built in the late 19th century and is the seat of the Archbishop of Manila. It is an impressive structure, featuring Gothic architectural elements, stained glass windows, and intricate stone carvings. The cathedral is also known for its beautiful stained glass windows and the colorful paintings that depict scenes from the life of Christ.
The Casa Manila Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Philippines. This museum is housed in a restored 19th-century Spanish colonial-style house that was built in the traditional style of the Philippines. The museum showcases the lifestyles of the Philippines' wealthy Spanish and Filipino families during the colonial period. Visitors can see the intricate wooden carvings, the beautiful chandeliers, and the elegant furniture that was used during this time period.
Casa Manila, is an essential thing to see in Intramuros
Casa Manila is, without a moment’s hesitation, one of the must-see places in Intramuros. It is not an original building, but a building commissioned by Imelda Marcos (widow of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos and a highly controversial political figure in the Philippines) in the 1980s. Even so, it is the best example of a bahay na bato , that is, a “stone house” that was built during the Spanish colonial period. These were the evolution of the traditional Filipino house, bahay kubo , made primarily of nipa (a type of palm tree).
The bahay na bato incorporated the Spanish style (but with Chinese influences as well) adapted to the climate and materials available in the Philippines. In them you can see a robust ground floor, usually made of stone blocks or bricks, and an upper floor made of materials such as nipa, wood or bamboo that allowed more ventilation. The roof could be tile or made of materials such as nipa, cisca or sago palm. These buildings of mestizo architecture belonged mainly to the upper class . If your curiosity has piqued you, here you will find much more information.
At Casa Manila you can enjoy this architecture and a beautiful patio that will make you think you are in some corner of Spain. Also, in the museum, please don’t forget to enter, you will be able to get an idea of what the colonial lifestyle was like thanks to a lot of furniture from that time. ESSENTIAL!
For those who are interested in art and culture, a visit to the Bahay Tsinoy Museum is a must. This museum showcases the history and culture of the Chinese-Filipino community in the Philippines. It was established in the 1990s and is housed in a restored 19th-century Chinese-style house. The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese Filipinos, including their traditional clothing, customs, and religious beliefs.
Finally, a visit to the Plaza Roma is a great way to end your journey through the history of Intramuros. This public square is located at the center of Intramuros and is surrounded by important historical landmarks, including the Cathedral of Manila, the Palacio del Gobernador, and the San Agustin Church. The square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike and is a great place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.
In conclusion, Intramuros is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to learn about the rich history of the Philippines. From the impressive fortifications of Fort Santiago to the beautiful colonial architecture of the San Agustin Church, Intramuros offers a journey through time and a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. Whether you are a history buff, an
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