Historical Places & Landmarks in the Philippines

The Philippines is a nation that is rich in historical landmarks and heritage in addition to being an archipelago with stunning beaches, vibrant festivals, and friendly people. Traveling around the islands of the Philippines involves passing through a variety of geographical locations as well as historical eras. 

Here are the well-known places and landmarks in the Philippines that you should check off your bucket list.

Intramuros, Manila

When in the nation’s capital, Manila, a trip through the walled city of Intramuros is a must. This 64-hectare Spanish castle, built during the Spanish era and ultimately destroyed by the conclusion of World War II, is a blast to explore on foot or on a bamboo bike tour. 

Visit historic churches like Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church, which is the country’s oldest church. You may visit renowned institutions, gift shops, and top-tier Filipino restaurants inside of this historic monument while on an Intramuros tour.

Rizal Park, Manila

Even though Manila may welcome you with skyscrapers, enormous stores, and terrible traffic, make time to visit Rizal Park, one of the country’s most recognizable attractions. One of Manila’s most historic locations is this sizable urban park with a dancing fountain and a 60-hectare size, complete with well-kept plants. 

The Rizal Monument, which marks the location of Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s execution, is located in what is more popularly referred to as Luneta Park.

You may access the National Museum of the Philippines’ network of large museums by walking a few meters away from the monument.

Fort Santiago, Manila

Fort Santiago is located within Manila’s Intramuros, a city surrounded by walls. When the Spaniards ruled the nation, it was once a stronghold that functioned as the headquarters for soldiers and foreign powers. 

Despite its ponds and fountains, it is most well-known for having been the location of national hero Jose Rizal’s captivity just before his execution in what is now the Rizal Monument in Rizal Park.

If you intend to take tours of Intramuros, you can also locate the Baluarte de Santa Barbara, an 18th-century military barracks, here.

Malacañang Palace, Manila

The Malacaang Palace, which was initially constructed in 1750 to accommodate Spanish aristocrats, has served as the official residence and main office of the president of the Philippines since 1935.

The Presidential Museum and Library, which houses valuable artifacts and boasts breathtaking architecture, is located in the Malacaang Museum and is accessible to the general public. 

You can visit the San Miguel Parish Church, the only temple in the world devoted to the seven archangels, as part of a tour of the royal complex. In the entire area, strict security is to be expected.

Binondo, Manila

Visit Binondo, widely regarded as the world’s oldest Chinatown, and eat your way through history. Binondo was already the center of Chinese trade and commerce in the nation before it was founded as a Spanish colony in 1954. 

The greatest way to enjoy it today is as a stop on a culinary tour in Manila, where you can sample the restaurant’s signature fried chicken, fried siopao, noodle soups, and the most genuine dim sum you will ever find in the entire metropolis.

Ilocos Sur’s Tirad Pass

What was once a combat zone covered in blood is today a popular trail for thrill seekers. The 1899 Battle of Tirad Pass, which took place during the Philippine-American War, took place at the Tirad Pass in Mount Tirad, Ilocos Sur, and is hence significant historically. 

Those who climb up the trail leading to the Shrine of Gregorio Del Pilar, honoring the Filipino general who was killed during the conflict, will be rewarded with breathtaking mountain views and verdant hills.

Calle Crisologo, Vigan

The streets of Calle Crisologo in Vigan were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are thought to be one of the best examples of a Spanish colonial town that has survived in Asia.

Experience a step back in time as you meander through quaint neighborhoods, marvel at Spanish colonial architecture, and savor delicious cuisine like the renowned Ilocos Empanada. 

While there, get a handmade item from one of the many gift shops there fashioned of the distinctive Abel Iloko weave. One of the most stunning tourist destinations in the Philippines is Calle Crisologo, so travel up to the north, visit Vigan, and locate some Calle Crisologo tours to take.

EDSA Shrine, Quezon City

The EDSA Shrine in Quezon City, which honors a more recent event, has already established itself as one of the most important historical locations in the Philippines.

The Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA was created to honor the 1986 People Power Revolution that took place in the streets of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, or EDSA, but is more widely known by its shorter moniker. 

During the revolution, Ferdinand Marcos, who had placed the nation under martial law, was overthrown. The statue of the Virgin Mary atop the shrine’s cathedral is what makes this landmark in Manila stand out the most. 

Mactan Shrine, Cebu

The history of the Mactan Shrine is one of the most important events in the history of the Philippines. It was built in honor of Datu Lapu-Lapu, the first hero of Cebu Island.

In 1521, the native leader of Mactan defeated adventurer Ferdinand Magellan at the Battle of Mactan, where this Philippine landmark was built.

A shrine for Magellan was also constructed in recognition of him for bringing Christianity to the Philippines, even if its major attraction is a 20-meter-tall bronze statue of Lapu-Lapu.

Basilica del Santo Niño, Cebu

When the community honors the Child Jesus with the Sinulog Festival on the third Sunday in January, thousands of believers and visitors alike throng to this church. 

It contains a statue of the Child Jesus that Ferdinand Magellan gave to Juana of Cebu, who was the country’s monarch at the time. One of the best things to do in the Philippines is to see this spectacular historical and religious structure, which has endured fires and a recent earthquake.

Tabon Cave, Palawan

The Tabon Caves in Palawan, known as the Cradle of Civilization of the Philippines, gained notoriety after a skull cap thought to be 20,000 years old was found at one of its locations. 

Along with the skull of the Tabon Man, significant artifacts dating back 47,000 years, including stone tools, animal bones, and human fossils, were also discovered in the caverns.

A jar burial complex has also been discovered, the most notable discovery being the Manunggul Jar, which depicts two figures on their trip to the afterlife. Join a tour of the Tabon cave to discover this significant cave in Palawan. 

Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine, Kawit, Cavite 

This home in Kawit, Cavite, which was once the residence of the country’s first and youngest president, also served as the location where the declaration of the Philippines’ independence from Spanish rule in 1898.

The house where President Emilio Aguinaldo lived is now a national shrine and a museum with important items from the momentous occasion. 

A balcony was erected in 1919, despite the fact that the first Philippine flag was flown from one of its windows. The mansion also has hidden rooms and spaces where valuable papers and weapons were once stashed. It is a well-liked historical site that is part of a heritage tour in Cavite.  

Baler Church

Baler is a town with a lot of history that both locals and visitors frequent for its surf-perfect waves. The San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Parish also referred to as Baler Church, was established in 1611 and served as the setting for the Philippine Revolution’s “Siege of Baler” conflict.

The Spanish continued to fortify the chapel as a military outpost even after the declaration of Philippine independence until they were forced to give up in 1899. According to legend, the church’s building was constructed using stones that were lime and honey plastered.

Puerto Princesa’s Plaza Cuartel

In addition to being the Philippines’ Last Frontier, Palawan is one of the best locations to see important historical sites. One of these is the Plaza Cuartel, which, along with other tourist attractions in Puerto Princesa, is frequently frequented.

It was formerly a garrison for American and Filipino soldiers during World War II. The location acts as a memorial for military prisoners who were burned alive in a tunnel beneath the earth. A day tour of Puerto Princesa typically includes it as a tourist destination.

Dapitan’s Jose Rizal Shrine

Jose P. Rizal, a national hero, spent four years in exile in this region, better known as the Rizal Shrine, after being charged with organizing the uprising against Spanish rule. 

The “Mi Retiro Rock” is one of its most notable monuments. It is where Rizal spent time watching sunsets and wrote one of his most beautiful poems, “Mi Retiro,” which is also one of his most famous works. Dakak Park and Beach Resort are located close to the shrine.

Bohol’s Sandugo Shrine

The Bohol ruler Datu Sikatuna and the Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi performed a blood compact in 1565, which is a tribal custom that cements relations. The momentous occasion saw the signing of the first friendship contract between the Spanish and the Filipinos. 

Bohol, an island filled with natural treasures including the Chocolate Hills, Panglao Beach, and the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier, is frequently visited by visitors. Sandugo Shrine is marked by a bronze sculpture by National Artist Napoleon Abueva. 

The Ruins, Talisay, Negros Occidental

The Ruins at Talisay, Negros Occidental, a home originally constructed by Don Mariano Lacson in memory of his late wife, Maria Braga, is a tribute to a husband’s devotion.

The Italian-inspired palace, which had neoclassical pillars and Machuca-tiled floors, was destroyed by Filipino guerillas during World War II.

Its ruins are still a stunning sight and are now a well-known tourist destination on Bacolod sightseeing tours. You pass through extensive sugarcane plantations as you go toward the landmark, which is located in the province of Negros.

Corregidor Island

Corregidor Island, regarded as one of the Philippines’ final military strongholds and a significant landmark in the country, is only a few hours from Manila. Corregidor was reinforced with coastal artillery during the American occupation to protect the entrance of Manila Bay from invading ships. 

Visits to locations including Battery Way, Battery Hearn, and the Pacific War Memorial, which was erected in commemoration of all the Filipino and American soldiers who fought during World War II, are all included in a day trip of Corregidor.

Barasoain Church, Bulacan

Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo was sworn in as the first president of the First Philippine Republic at the Barasoain Church, known as the “Cradle of Democracy in the East” and located in Malolos, Bulacan. 

The Barasoain Church is not only a notable historical site but also one of the Philippines’ areas of interest and structural beauty, with features like rose windows, wood carvings, and painted domes and architecture that reflects Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

Please read: TRAVEL ATTRACTIONS IN PALAWAN 2023

Conclusion

The historical landmarks and places of worship in the Philippines need to serve as a reminder of the bravery, hardships, and sacrifices made by Filipinos over many centuries to secure the freedom we take for granted today.

They used to look after our independence. Can we protect our freedom now, in this time? Blood and lives were shed by our heroes. Let’s pay them a visit and treat them with honor.

How many of the aforementioned monuments and shrines have you already been to? What further Philippine historical sites can you add to this list? Please feel free to remark below.

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