Intramuros, a remnant of Spanish Colonialism and a historic district within Manila, is a must-see for anyone on a tour of the Philippines. This stone-walled, former fortress was the center of political and military power, and is one of the most important historical locations in Manila. Construction of the fortified city center began around 1590, and Intramuros grew over many decades, and with different nations in occupation. It resides along the Pasig river and is home to fascinating architecture, museums, churches, and parks. In fact, there is so much to see in Intramuros that we have compiled a quick guide to four of the must see attractions within this historic city center.
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Gate of Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago was built as part of the walled fortifications of the city and its main gate is one of the most photographed and visited portions of Intramuros. The site was once a Muslim fort, and was taken over and rebuilt by the Spanish beginning in 1571 (although not with stone until the walls of Intramuros were started in 1590). The fort was heavily damaged in WWII during the Battle of Manila in early 1945. It has since been restored and the fort’s walls, its bastions and dungeons, are now a historical park which is used for picnics, open-air theater, and even weddings.
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photo by Ray in Manila (via Flickr)
Inside Saint Agustin Church Saint Agustin Church
St. Agustin church, as it stands today, is actually the third version of the church to exist. The first two structures burned down, and so the decision was made to finally build the church from stone, and it was completed in 1607. This gorgeous example of Spanish Baroque architecture is visited by thousands of tourists each year. It also played a large role in history, as a concentration camp run by the Japanese in WWII. It is the only church in Intramuros to survive the war, but the adjacent monastery was destroyed, and rebuilt in the 1970's as a museum. The highlight of this UNESCO World Heritage site has to be the ceiling. It was painted by two Italian artists – Cesare Alberoni and Giovanni Dibella – in 1875, and gives the illusion of being three-dimensional. It's definitely a wonder, so have your camera ready and make the trip to St. Agustin.
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photo by Xiquinho Silva (via Flickr)
Casa Manila in Intramuros, Manila Casa Manila
Casa Manila is a museum located across the street from St. Agustin church. It is part of the Barrio San Luis, one of the four original villages in Intramuros. Casa Manila was constructed in the 1980's by Imelda Marcos, and is a copy of an 1850’s San Nicolas House (San Nicolas is a district of Manila known for keeping its ancestral houses, many in the Spanish Colonial style). Great care was taken to fill the museum with antiques, and so the furniture, artwork, and even the kitchen utensil are authentic items from the 1850's. It's an opportunity to walk through the past and experience the grace and beauty of a bygone era.
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photo by Butch Dalisay (via Flickr)
View of the Manila skyline from the Bayleaf Hotel's sky deck The Bayleaf Hotel
The Bayleaf Hotel is the epitome of grace and modern beauty within Intramuros, and perfectly situated within walking distance of several historical landmarks. It also boasts fine dining in four different restaurants, but the view from the Sky Deck is the real "must see." Not only is the food delicious, but the view of the golf course and Manila skyline is unparalleled. Soak up some luxury and relaxation at this beautiful and modern hotel when you need a break from the sightseeing.
You can experience the sights and sounds of Intramuros and many other destinations in and around Manila on any of Uncharted Philippines' Manila day tours. Discover the magic of the Philippines for yourself.