Sightseeing in Manila

There are very few cities that can represent the history and culture of the Philippines as well as Manila. The next time that you are in the nation’s capital, make sure to drop by the following places of interest.

Intramuros

The word literally translates to “within walls” in Spanish, and is an apt name for the enclosed city. During the Spanish conquest, Intramuros was Manila itself, where all the important government, political and religious edifices were erected. During World War II the walled city came under heavy bombardment from the American forces, as the Japanese used the city as a base.

Intramuros was reconstructed in the 1980s and today one can see numerous Spanish era edifices there, including the San Ignacio Church, San Agustin Chruch, Manila Cathedral and the Palacio Arzobispal, among others. There are also bulwarks ravelin and redoubt structures all over the walls.

Manila Ocean Park

Situated near the Quirino Grandstand, Manila Ocean Park is one of the largest oceanariums in Southeast Asia, occupying more than 80,000 sq. ft. Some of the features of this marine theme park include the Agos, a rainforest complete with an assortment of different fish types.

The Bahura (Reef) displays replicas of various coral found in the Philippines; the Kalaliman (Depths of the Ocean), showcasing the varied marine life forms in the seas; the Pating features different types of sharks, while the Pagi focuses on sting rays. The Living Ocean is an 80 ft walkway tunnel where one can view all kinds of marine life.

Manila Zoo

In existence since 1959, the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden is the oldest in Asia. With over 800 animals (over 100 species), this zoo remains one of the main attractions of the city, and offers insights and peeks into the different kinds of animals in the Philippines and also around the world.

The National Museum

This is the primary repository of the historical data and artifacts concerning Manila and the Philippines. The museum features several artifacts and handiworks from the various points in Philippine history, from the ancient tribes and peoples to the Spanish and American periods to information and relics from World War II.

Luneta Park

Aside from its historical significance as the sight of the execution of Jose Rizal, Luneta (or Rizal Park) contains other attractions, including a small lake with a replica of the Philippines situated in its midst. The Chinese Gardens, a Planetarium, and a monument of Lapu Lapu, are among its other features.

Quiapo Church

This ancient church (the groundwork was laid down in the 15th century) is the site of the Black Nazarene, an ebony statue of Jesus Christ. Every January 9 the Church hosts the Procession of the Black Nazarene, where millions of devotees flock to the site to witness the parading of the revered icon.

Paco Park

Paco Park was constructed by the Spaniards during the 1700s to serve as the final resting place of the aristocracy, When the Japanese occupied Manila, it was converted into an ammo depot. In the 1960s, under President Dioasdao Macapagal, the area was transformed into a park. Today it often hosts cultural presentations, and also a setting for weddings and other events.

Fort Santiago

One of the most storied landmarks in Manila, Fort Santiago functions today as a museum dedicated to preserving the relics and artifacts of the Spanish regime, and also the Rizal shrine. It also features several jails that were used by the colonists.

Fort Santiago served numerous functions in its history; very early on it was part of the kingdom of Raja Suliman, ruler of pre Hispanic Manila. When the Spaniards came in the 15th century the place was converted into their military fortress. Later it also served as a port for trade.