I hope you’re having a relaxed weekend, my friends! Today I’m sharing with you some of the old churches in the Philippines that D and I were able to visit over the years. Hope you like them!
Paoay Church, Ilocos Norte
A trip to the northern province of Luzon won’t be complete until one checks out the Paoay Church, Ilocos Norte’s iconic church also known as San Agustin Church. It was founded by Augustinian priests in 1593 and was inaugurated on 1896. This beautiful baroque architecture is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Liliw Church, Laguna
This beautiful church has a red brick facade and glass-stained windows. It was built in 1605, and is also known as Saint John the Baptist Parish Church.
Daraga Church, Bicol
The Daraga Church is found in Albay, Bicol. It is also known as Nuestra Señora de la Porteria Parish Church, built by Franciscan priests in 1772. It has a white facade which was built of volcanic rocks, as the site is near the cone-shaped Mayon Volcano.
Manila Cathedral, Manila
Located in the walled city of Intramuros, Manila, the Manila Cathedral serves as the See of the Archbishop of Manila. It was established in 1571.
Miag-ao Church, Iloilo
The construction of this church began in 1787 and completed in 1797. This beautiful church served as a fortress against Moro raiders. It was destroyed during the 1898 revolution and was subsequently rebuilt. This church is also known as Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish Church.
Taal Basilica, Batangas
Also known as Minor Basilica of Saint Martin of Tours, the Taal Basilica is considered the largest church in Philippines and in Asia. Its construction began in 1575, three years after Taal Town was founded. Over the years it had been rebuilt following several earthquakes.
Nagcarlan Church, Laguna
This church is also known as San Bartolome Apostol Parish Church, and was founded by Franciscan priests in 1578. Nearby is the national historic landmark Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery.
Lazi Church, Siquijor
This beautiful, unassuming church is quietly tucked in the town of Lazi in Siquijor. It has a neoclassical style, and was declared a National Cultural Treasure. It was built in 1884 and is also known as San Isidro Labrador Parish Church.
There you have it, some of the old churches in the Philippines whose photos I enjoy looking back on. I know there are lots of other old churches worth visiting – and meeting for the first time. Now that I’m stuck at home, I fully appreciate the efforts being put by communities to preserve their churches. I’m also trying to learn online how to identify the different architectural types as I find them quite interesting.
Have you been to the Philippines and have you seen any of the beautiful old churches above – and more? Let me know what you think and if you have recommended churches I can drive to soon. Have a good Sunday!
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