Unlike the first jaunt where we overlooked our set schedule, Dada and I were able to carefully plan our itinerary out this time. Cutie how we are just in the metropolis but it was as if we were going somewhere, huh? It is becauuuse -- shall say it agaaain -- there are lots of things waiting to be explored in Manila (and in the Philippines)! There are a lot of places to see. Just like… City Walls and Defensive Structures In my other post, I mentioned that Intramuros was derived from the Latin phrase, “within the walls.” The thick stone barriers, of course, are the ones who would greet you as you enter the place. Surrounded by 22-feet high walls, Intramuros covers 64 hectares of land. The stretch of the rampart has an estimated three to five kilometers in length. And actually, these city walls were constructed like that because it was outlined to become defensive barricades for battles and attacks. This walled city followed the silhouettes of Manila Bay and the profiles of the Pasig River. These two played an important role in scheming military decisions and commercial trades during the Spanish civilization. Being the old capital of the country, the city of Intramuros became the nerve of the economy and military bases before -- proving that indeed, the community beyond the fort was a highly influential location. Strategically nestled along the massive walls are some redoubts, ravelins, and bulwarks that follow the medieval design fortifications. These structures were meant to be defensive landmarks. There are bastions around like Bastions of Tenerias, Aduana, Plano, San Andres, San Lorenzo, San Gabriel, and San Diego, which is built in 1587 and considered the oldest. There are also bastions on the corners of the triangular Fort Santiago such as the Medio Baluarte de San Francisco, Baluarte de San Miguel, and Baluarte de Santa Bárbara. Each of these shields has its own distinctive style since constructed in different periods of time. Casa Manila Casa Manila is a beautiful heritage house -- but it is also considered an educational museum -- that evokes the colonial lifestyle in the Philippines during the Spanish occupation. Located in General Luna Street, this two-storey Bahay Na Bato is filled with captivating arts, antique furniture, and ancient paraphernalia. Each room is flamboyant and unique in its own way. It has high ceilings, exceptional Baroque ceilings, and hardwood Castillian flooring that make the house very royal and high class. Casa Manila has salas, cuartos, despacho, comedor, cocina, and baño that step you back in time. Its extraordinary architecture, lavish interior designs, and ornate features prove that it is a rich home, not just a typical house. There are also interesting items that were preserved, especially in the kitchen. And since the casa is a museum, too, visitors are not allowed to touch the displays. Commercial photography is also prohibited. You can roam the whole house, but you can only walk on the carpet. Beyond those lines? It is a no-no based on the house rules. What did Dada and I like the most in Casa Manila? The friendly tourist guides! These approachable people can show you around the house and entertain the questions that you have. They would give you factual information and trivia regarding the casa and during the Spanish era. On the other side, the courtyard is my favorite part of the house! I super love the romantic fountain! Unless you are having a photo shoot, you can visit this patio anytime and you do not need to pay any cent at all! In addition, you might want to visit their souvenir shop after roaming around, too. San Agustin Church and Museum The first time I went to San Agustin Church, I was a flower girl of my favorite Tita Grace and Ninong Rommel. My second visit was for another wedding, the #JustinTimeForChai that inspired me a lot. And the third, this -- where I realized I want to get married here, someday, one day, soon. *hehe with kilig* San Agustin Church is one of the few churches that were built during the Spanish colonization. Established in the late 15th Century, it is considered as the oldest Philippine church. It has been reconstructed thrice due to man-made and natural disasters. And because it witnessed a lot of history in the country, it is designated as a National Historical Landmark by the PH government and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). I mentioned about San Agustin Church in the previous post. However, I failed to say that it also has a museum! The San Agustin Museum is found on the right side, adjacent to the church. It owns a lot of historical treasures, particularly religious art pieces. Each gallery is different and they would definitely pique your interests! Every turn -- from the ancient corridors to exhibits -- would cross to something dazing and fascinating. Indeed, both art and history lovers would vision this quaint place as heaven. The museum has a pathway that lets you see the entire church from a top view. You would see the intricate ceilings from there. But guess what, it looks like they are carved but, it is actually a flat surface. They used the Trompe-l'œil art technique to make optical illusions realistic to the naked eye. Yes, I know, awesome! It also has a souvenir shop and a shady garden with high trees and a fountain. If you walk a little bit more, you would see the church’s wedding reception venue, too. I am proud of these structures, The San Agustin Church and San Agustin Museum -- they were able to preserve the Filipino Catholic heritage, especially in Manila. And despite the chaotic past and messy world we have lived in, it serves as a peaceful refuge for humans even for just a few moments. I like the tour here so much because I know in myself, I was enriched by my faith to God and ignited to love my country more. I developed some deep, religious theories. Thanks to the beauty of the works that I saw. Manila Cathedral-Basilica Tagged as the mother of all churches, cathedrals, and basilicas in the Philippines, The Manila Cathedral-Basilica is, of course, the premier church in the country. It is the first-ever cathedral in the archipelago. Among all the churches around, The Manila Cathedral is the only elevated to the rank of a basilica by motu proprio. Pope John Paul II raised it as a minor basilica, two months after his first visit to the country in 1981. The other churches in the country only became a basilica because of the initiative of the local church of Manila. The Manila Cathedral is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the principal patroness of the Philippines. Also, it is the episcopal see or the area of a bishop's ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Manila. Just a simple, ordinary stone church, The Manila Cathedral has gone major restorations -- eight times to be exact -- since it was established. The latest reconstruction happened after World War II. Though inspired by the previous design, the cathedral we see today was improved in appearance and functionality. Its Neo-Romanesque-Revival architecture is a combination of revival, renaissance, and modern style techniques that make it one of the highly majestic churches in the country. It features mosaic-stained glass windows, marble flooring, arcaded entablature, and even an adorning cupola. The last time we attended, we were blessed to be presided by Cardinal Luis Antonio "Chito" Gokim Tagle. Dada and I wanted to attend the mass here, but there is no scheduled mass when we came. Maybe next time! Hopefully, next time. Plaza Roma Plaza de Roma or Plaza Roma was the Plaza Mayor during the Spanish times. It was where public events like bullfights and fiestas happen before. It is still considered the center of the walled city and is still a major public square in Intramuros. However, unlike the busy plazas in the city, this quad became more like a park and a garden. The Intramuros Administration was said to have plans in reverting the square’s appearance that is similar to the Spanish era. Silahis Center For the last part of this blog: Silahis Center! It is known for its furniture, paintings, wooden wares, accessories, and knickknacks that are perfect for pasalubongs. But apart from souvenirs, you can head to this center because it showcases local heritage and national artistry. It is one of the must-go places in Intramuros because you could shop locally-made products and learn about the Filipino culture as well. What is nice here, the store is very Instagrammable -- it looks like a museum, too! I super enjoyed this day! Of course, I was with my bebe. But also, I was able to go to the places I only used to read or used to see in postcards, books, magazines, or online! It has been some months since I/we went here, but I still remember the wonderful feeling of the moments that day. Excited for the next gala! :)
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THE BLOG-GIRLE L A M A N I L A Ela Mones, a Filipina girl,
is a passionate lifestyle blogger who loves to express her unforgettable life experiences and best moments through words, photos, and videos 💖
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