The Philippines’ iconic capital of Manila is home to a rich array of Catholic churches, each of which spin an intriguing take that contributes to the city’s impressive tapestry of colonial influences, with the Our Lady of Guadalupe serving as one of Manila’s most impressive monuments. Explore this and the other impressive churches decorating the cityscape when you check into a centrally located Makati apartment such as the Ascott Makati. Situated near world-class dining and entertainment, these stellar Manila serviced apartments are an ideal host for your visit to Manila. Escape the city’s bustle and seek a moment of tranquility in the city’s many churches, of which one of the most iconic is the Our Lady of Guadalupe, which has survived an impressive array of natural and man-contrived disasters to quietly and well-deservedly claim the title of a “national monument” in 2010. Originally constructed as a place of rest and refuge for Augustinian monks, the church dates back to the 17th century. The patroness of the church presides as a welcome spiritual anchor for the unborn, the ailing, the aged and the disabled. She also presides over indigenous people, those with child and those seeking to beget children, and, strangely enough, photographers. The structure of the church presents a impressive sight conducive to deep reflection, as it employs neo-gothic-Romanesque styles of architecture. It is a welcome oasis within the city that sings of history and spirituality.
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.