The Philippines is saturated with the rich trappings of Portuguese culture from its colonial past. This slice of history is most apparent in the beautiful catholic cathedrals that stand as grand relics of the country’s spiritual lineage. The best way to experience these unique historical elements is via a central Manila hotel situated in close proximity to many of the city’s intriguing attractions. The Heritage Hotel Manila is an excellent option of a quality hotel in Manila guaranteed to make any stay a memorable one. Visit the Malate Church for a glimpse into the city’s splendid colonial past, as it is one of the country’s oldest churches, being built by Augustinian friars in the sixteenth century. Located just beyond Manila Bay, and in front of Rajah Suleiman Park, Malate Church is a supreme example of baroque architecture. The church was erected to venerate “Our Lady of Remedies”, who is the patron saint of childbirth, and it enshrines a splendid statue of the Virgin Mary that dates back to seventeenth century Spain. Despite being destroyed by a typhoon and suffering immense damage during the bombing of WW2, today Malate Church proudly stands as a magnificent tribute to the deity of Virgin Mary in Christian lore.
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.