As you
enter the famous Walled City of Intramuros, feel like you’ve traveled back to
the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. From its cobbled streets to the
giant stone fortress, it was the center of government, education, commerce, and
religion back then!
Intramuros
was built 300 years ago by the Spaniards making it the oldest district of
Manila. Just one visit in this historical site will surely make you learn more about
the Philippines. Take it from us, wherever you lay your eyes on this place, you’ll
never run out of sights to appreciate and take snaps too.
While
some of its landscape has evolved through the years, still, its charm hasn’t
changed and its undying history continues to live on. Planning to spend a day exploring Intramuros? Here are the places
worth checking out and activities to
try to get a taste of history inside The Walled City:
The Walls
Known to be “The Walled City”,
Intramuros is surrounded by thick stone walls where you can stroll around all
day. Standing at about 22 feet tall and 8 feet wide, it truly is amazing to think
that these fortifications are so sturdy that it resisted the past wars. You can
also actually climb these walls giving you a different perspective of the streets
within Intramuros and the golf course beyond it.
Fort Santiago
Take a walk down in memory lane in the
oldest Hispanic stone fortress in the Philippines! Fort Santiago was used to be
a military headquarters of the Spaniards. It was also used as storage for gun
powders and jail for prisoners. Though heavily damaged during the Battle of
Manila last 1945, most parts of the fortress were restored and so its iconic
gate. This is also where Jose Rizal (Philippine's National Hero) was imprisoned
before he was executed on December 30, 1896.
Manila Cathedral
The Manila Cathedral,
also known as Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is a premier church,
the first cathedral, and one of the most important churches in the Philippines.
Though it has gone through several major reconstructions after suffering from
different natural disasters and being a victim of war, this church still stands
remarkably inside The Walled City. But aside from its religious value, marvel
at its architectural features, marble floors, tall columns, and intricate high
ceilings showcasing art and sanctity of Catholicism all at once!
Kalesa
There are two ways for you to enjoy
Intramuros, a walking tour or a sweet Kalesa ride! It is a horse-driven
carriage used during the time of the Spanish occupation but were mostly
reserved for high officials during that era. Today, these kalesas now serves as
a leisure ride for both locals and tourist. So, sit back and admire the walled
city the same way the Spaniards did centuries ago!
San Agustin Church
Who would have thought that inside the
walls of Intramuros lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Take a glimpse inside
San Agustin, the oldest stone church in the Philippines and the only church in
Intramuros that withstood World War II and natural disasters. Get stunned with
its facade with a unique Spanish Baroque architecture, high altar, and splendid
ceilings. For the past years, its walls have stood as a mute witness to
Philippine history.
Falsabraga de Media
Naranja
When you’re already inside the Fort
Santiago, don’t miss the chance to go to Falsabraga de Media Naranja. Formerly
a dungeon, it was used as storage vaults and powder magazines. Its location was
also a prime reason why the Spaniards built it on top of the Baluarte in 1718.
This part of Intramuros offers a great view of the Pasig River and some of
Manila’s skyline.
Barbara’s Heritage
Restaurant
To complete your
historical day trip, eat your heart out at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant! Not
only that they serve authentic Filipino foods, but you'll also get entertained
by various cultural dance performances from all around the country. Make sure
to come hungry so you can try all of the dishes from their grand buffet!
For hundreds of years,
Intramuros was Manila itself. Its walls did not only serve as a defense, but
also as witness to the city’s stormy years. With all those memories that lie
within its walls, there’s no doubt that the beauty and history of the Walled
City of Intramuros is a timeless one.
Plus, other historical
sites such as the Luneta Park and National Museum are just around the corner so if you’re looking for a place that’ll treat you with
a grand history lesson, then better put Intramuros on top of your “Must-visit
places in Manila”!
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