San Agustin church has an impressive history. That is precisely why you should visit this place of worship whenever you are in Philippines. The church has got a new look. You need to take some time to explore this church, so that you get a proper idea about it. If you stay at Somerset Millennium Makati, one of the Makati Hotels, it will be more convenient to reach the place.
This church was among the few buildings that survived the Japanese-American war. Look at the church to re-imagine the brutality of that war. The church’s titanic structure, along with its charming interior, will make you wonderstruck. No wonder, it was recently made a World Heritage Site.
They originally called this Inglesia de San Pablo. Its history goes as far back as 1571, and you will notice its stone structure. It is the Philippines’ oldest stone church. It is now called Saint Agustine as the church is run by Augustinian Friars. Try to see the tomb of El Adelentado Miguel Lopez de Legaspi too. Legaspi is the founder of Manila city. Locating the tomb is not that difficult. It is situated in the eastern chapel of the transept.
With all this aside, you will perhaps wonder what is so significant about this church to be marked as a World Heritage Site. Well, you need to discover it to yourself. Make a visit here and try to find out what remains so special about the place. If you are a Catholic, this place will certainly establish your faith. It might evoke those good ole memories of your childhood, if you had a devout Catholic family.
Surprising enough, this church is still alive with spirit. It gets crowded with devotees. You will be able to take part in mass celebrations. They use both English and Filipino for rituals. And believe it or not, this church is placed as one of the most extravagant, expensive and busiest church wedding venues.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Shazzana Hamid is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary. Disguised as Lavinia Woolf she writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.
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