Manila is the splendid capital of the Philippines and it is saturated with the history and cultural trappings of colonial Spain that still stand out in the city’s cosmopolitan landscape. Some magnificent samples of this fine European heritage grace the architectural interiors of its administrative buildings, churches and hotels. So if visitors seek a historic hotel in Manila that expertly blends the worlds of the traditional and modern, consider The Heritage Hotel Manila. This choice selection of a quality Manila hotel offers all guests a sublime hospitality experience in the heart of the city. When you’re in the city proper, be sure to explore the intriguing array of spiritual centres in the city, which provides a glimpse back in time to when the city was heavily influences by the Spanish expatriate population. The Santa Cruz Church is a fine example of this, and was constructed in 1608 by the Jesuits to administer to the growing number of Chinese immigrants into the region, many of whom had become Christian converts. The church has see two incarnations, as it had been heavily damaged by two earthquakes and then completely destroyed during World War 2. The church was restored to its former grandeur in 1957 and it displays an impressive baroque influence that is reminiscent of the mission churches in Southern California built by the Spanish missionaries. It is very much a fully-functioning parish church to this day and is well worth a visit for you to get a taste of modern Filipino spirituality in a Spanish-Catholic context.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.
