Manila, Philippines, is a city where Eastern and Western cultures blend, and the old meets the new. Known as the "New York of Asia," it is the most European city on the continent. Having been under Spanish rule for over 300 years, the Philippines possesses a distinct Western European charm, leaving behind century-old Spanish-style streets and churches. Strolling through Manila's historic architectural complexes, one feels immersed in an exotic atmosphere, often losing track of time and place. This unique city attracts numerous tourists every year and is also a destination for investors immigrating to the Philippines. Below is an introduction to some of Manila's famous attractions.
Manila Bay
The sunset at Manila Bay is world-renowned. Roxas Boulevard, which runs along the western side of Manila city, stretches 28 kilometers from the mouth of the Pasig River in the north to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in the south. On the seaside of this straight, 50-meter-wide boulevard are sidewalks and green belts. Swaying coconut trees, lush green lawns, and colorful flowers complement the calm waters of Manila Bay, creating a beautiful landscape. In the evening, the afterglow of the setting sun shines on the swaying coconut trees along the coast, while the emerald green water gradually turns a shimmering golden yellow under the sunset, with wisps of crimson clouds floating in the distant horizon. Walking along the shore of Manila Bay at this time, gazing into the distance amidst the gentle sea breeze, is truly refreshing.
Intramuros
Located on the banks of the Pasig River, Intramuros, also known as the "Walled City," is the original site of Manila. Built by the Spanish in 1571 to rule the Philippines, it covers an area of 1 square kilometer and is known as a "city within a city." The castle is surrounded by moats and medieval-style walls, featuring 7 gates, with the Governor's Palace and 12 churches inside. Most of the castle was destroyed at the end of World War II, and parts of it have since been restored.
In Intramuros, visitors can experience a sense of traveling back in time, with vintage carriages carrying tourists through streets, gates, ports, and fortresses. The area exudes an elegant Spanish atmosphere and retains its ancient architectural features. Inside the walls are Manila's largest church—the Manila Cathedral, the San Agustin Church and Museum, Fort Santiago, the Rizal Shrine, and more.
San Agustin Church
San Agustin Church was originally built in 1571 using bamboo, coconut leaves, and mud. After being destroyed by fire, it was rebuilt in 1599 as a stone structure. It is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and is considered a miracle by many for having survived five earthquakes and two world wars.
San Agustin Church is characterized by its detailed and lifelike stone reliefs. The interior ceilings and walls are adorned with paintings, with statues of St. Augustine and Jesus in the center. The ashes of many prominent Filipino officials are buried within the church, with the dates of birth and death engraved on the floor. The most tropical features are the chandeliers and the bright sunlight that streams through the stained-glass windows for long periods.
The Philippines is dotted with numerous Catholic churches, earning it the title of the "Vatican of the East." In the capital, Manila, at the heart of the Walled City where Spanish colonists once lived, stands a church that has survived earthquakes, typhoons, and the ravages of war. This is the 400-year-old San Agustin Church, which was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1993.
Manila Cathedral
The Manila Cathedral is the main building of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. The original church was built in 1581 and has been repeatedly damaged and rebuilt over the years due to typhoons, earthquakes, and the fires of war. The current structure is the result of the sixth reconstruction, designed in the late 1950s by architect Fernando Ocampo and Archbishop Rufino J. Santos, drawing inspiration from the stone carvings and rose windows of the old church. The stained-glass windows shine brilliantly thanks to the skylights, and the three side chapels are decorated with mosaics.
The Manila Cathedral hosts religious activities such as masses, confessions, and baptisms, and also provides wedding services.
Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago is located in the northwest of Intramuros. Construction began in 1571 and was completed 150 years later by Filipino laborers. Fort Santiago is one of the oldest fortifications in the Walled City. After the Spanish took control of the Philippines, the fort became their primary defense against potential invaders. A notable feature of this legendary ancient fortress is the wood carving on the gate depicting the story of Santiago. As a stronghold for the Spanish to defend against foreign enemies, the fort features sea-facing walls and batteries, as well as numerous deep dungeons used to imprison civilians and guerrillas during World War II.
Although it was the lair of Spanish rulers, Fort Santiago is also known as a "Shrine of Freedom," commemorating the Filipinos who were imprisoned and killed during the Spanish and Japanese occupations. The fort was destroyed during World War II, but after reconstruction, it has now become a park and a great place for a stroll.