Markus Castro
The History of The Manila Cathedral
Table of Contents
The Manila Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the Intramuros district of Manila, Philippines. It is one of the oldest churches in the country and has a rich and storied history.
The original cathedral was built in 1581 and was made of bamboo and nipa. Over the years, it was rebuilt several times due to natural disasters and fires. The cathedral has also played an important role in Philippine history. It was the site of the proclamation of Philippine independence by General Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12, 1898. It was also where the funeral of former President Corazon Aquino was held in 2009.
During World War II, the cathedral was heavily damaged by bombings and fires. It was reconstructed in the 1950s and again in the 1980s, with the latter restoration being led by National Artist for Architecture, Leandro Locsin.
Today, the Manila Cathedral stands as a symbol of the Philippines’ deep Catholic faith and rich cultural heritage. It is also an important landmark and tourist attraction in Manila.
Regular Mass Schedules / Times at the Manila Cathedral
- Monday 7:30 AM & 12:10 PM
- Tuesday 7:30 AM & 12:10 PM
- Wednesday 7:30 AM & 12:10 PM
- Thursday 7:30 AM & 12:10 PM
- Friday 7:30 AM & 12:10 PM
- Saturday 7:30 AM
- Sunday 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, & 6:00 PM
All Masses are live-streamed online through their Facebook Page and Youtube Channel.
How to go to Manila Cathedral
Manila Cathedral is located in the historic walled city of Intramuros in Manila, Philippines. Here are some ways to get to the cathedral:
- By car or taxi: You can take a taxi or drive your car to Intramuros. The cathedral is located near the entrance of the walled city, at Plaza de Roma.
- By public transportation: From various points in Metro Manila, you can take a jeepney, bus, or train to the city hall area and walk to Intramuros. The nearest train station is the LRT-1 Central Station, while the nearest bus stop is at Taft Avenue. You can ride a pedicab or a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) to the cathedral.
- By a guided tour: Several guided tours are available, including a visit to the Manila Cathedral and other historical sites in Intramuros. These tours can be arranged through travel agencies, hotels, or online.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, as pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas. It is also recommended to visit the cathedral during daytime hours when more people are around.
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