Guide to Visita Iglesia in Metro Manila
Visita Iglesia is an annual tradition observed by Catholics during the Lenten season where devotees visit at least seven churches on Maundy Thursday.
Here’s a list of seven churches in Metro Manila with a rich history, boasting stunning architecture and design:
Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church (7440 Bernardino Street, Guadalupe Viejo, Makati City) –
In the middle of Makati’s skyscrapers stands this authentic Renaissance-Baroque church founded by the Augustinians in 1599.
Malate Church (2000 M.H. Del Pilar St. Malate) –
First built in 1588, the Malate Church is considered as one of Manila’s most iconic churches as it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. This church has an interplay of Muslim design and Mexican baroque.
San Agustin Church (General Luna St., Intramuros)
– This is the only church considered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in Manila and was also named as a National Historical Landmark in 1976. Built in 1907, the church has a detailed trompe l’oeil murals on its walls and ceilings, a two-dimensional art which amazingly gives the illusion of a three-dimensional space.
Binondo Church (Plaza L. Ruiz, Binondo) –
Considered as one of the oldest Catholic churches in Metro Manila, the Binondo Church is known for its octagonal bell tower, reflecting the Chinese culture of its parishioners. It was founded by Dominican priests in 1596.
Sta. Ana Church (New Panaderos cor. Pedro Gil St., Santa Ana) –
Constructed in 1725 under the Franciscans, the Sta. Ana Church has been designated as a Historic Building in 1936. It houses two National Cultural Treasures declared by a presidential decree – the Santa Ana Site Museum and the Camarin de la Virgen (The Dressing Room of the Virgin), a chapel room.
San Sebastian Church (Pasaje del Carmen, Plaza Miranda, Quiapo) –
Considered as a National Historical Landmark and a National Cultural Treasure, this church is a gothic-style Roman Catholic minor basilica located in Quiapo. It was completed in 1891 and is the only all-steel church in the Philippines.
Manila Cathedral (Beaterio St, Cabildo St, Intramuros) –
The cathedral is a 444-yearold historical site with an area of almost 3,000 square meters. It is decked with beautiful black marble flooring, beautiful brickwork, and a vaulted ceiling encapsulating classic Spanish architecture elements.
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