A fulfilling journey : A visit to the Four UNESCO World Heritage Churches in the Philippines

As you have probably noticed, I'm fascinated with century old churches. Having visited some of the famous and beautiful churches in the country, 4 made it to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites were created in 1978 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). It was created as a means to help ensure the preservation of our natural, cultural, and intellectual heritage.

There are innumerable churches and cathedrals all over the country, but the 4 UNESCO World heritage Churches should be at the top of your list. Whether you're a dedicated churchgoer or simply want to marvel at our country's rich religious heritage, these churches are truly worth a visit.

The four churches are:

1. Church of San Agustin in Paoay, Ilocos Norte

2. Church of La Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur

3. Church of San Agustin in Manila

4. Church of Santo Tomas de Villanueva in Iloilo

How about you? How many have you visited so far?

The Old Stone Church of Kalayaan, Laguna

A big factor in my decision of why I chose to visit Laguna was the rich history and culture the province holds. The preservation of old structures from ancestral houses to old churches is simply amazing.

In the town of Kalayaan, Laguna is the old stone church of Longos dedicated to San Juan Bautista. The Longos Church is located in Brgy. Longos, Kalayaan, Laguna.  Longos is a barrio of the town of Kalayaan, the municipality in between Paete and Lumban Laguna.

A short walk from the national highway is the Church compound with a garden surrounded with old trees. From the outside, it seems that the Longos church has retained its Spanish-era features.  Walking around you’ll see old stones that fit tightly together like puzzle pieces and create walls and structures that have stood the test of time.

The St. John the Baptist Church, built in 1669, has one of the most beautiful facades and bell tower in Laguna. Though its facade looks very much preserved, the rooftop portion is a different story. Locals says, due to typhoon Ondoy in 2006 its original roof was heavily damaged, thus it was replaced with iron roofs because Government lack support and funds to restore it. 

How to get to Longos, Kalayaan, Laguna

Ride an HM Transport bus (fare: P140)on EDSA, Cubao or Green Star Express bus  on Taft Avenue, Pasay City near LRT Buendia, alight in Sta. Cruz then ride a Siniloan-bound jeepney. Request the driver to drop you off in Longos.

Patar-Bolinao in less than 48 hours

I love Bolinao, especially PATAR. I know it’s not the most usual destination, but there is just something about Patar that I can’t get enough of. Patar could take days to explore properly, but if you only have less than 48 hours to take a look around, here’s how I suggest you spend your time.

10 PM : Take a direct trip to Bolinao from Victory Liner(Cubao) or Five Star Bus(Pasay). Manila to Bolinao is approximately 6 to 7 hours travel time. The main transportation in Patar, Bolinao is tricycles. 

5 am : A quick breakfast at Adora's

Located at the back of St. James Church. Nothing is really fancy here, it even looks like a small canteen but food is cheap and definitely affordable. Indulge in a typical breakfast at adora's - and watch life go by as the town slowly wakes up. 

The day was tiring but definitely worth it!

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 25 : The Mauban Church - Mauban, Quezon

The Church of Mauban stands a few meters near Mauban's pier, fronting Lamon Bay. It is under the protection of St. Bonaventure, the town's patron saint. Beautiful and charming town.

Its is really worth visiting Mauban,Quezon. You can do a sidetrip to this old Catholic Church, eat at the restaurants/pedicab to try their pancit habhab and halo-halo (a must for everyone).

Very nice and interesting church to visit. Aside from attending the mass, the view is also worth visiting.

Quick Facts on The Church of Mauban

Church Information

Names : The Roman Catholic Parish Church of Saint James the Apostle 

Founded : 1864

Architectural type : baroque 

Location :  Paete, Laguna

Main attraction : The large wall paintings on wood panels inside the church. The intricate retablo which is so beautifully done.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 24 : The Roman Catholic Parish Church of Saint James the Apostle - Paete, Laguna

Yes, you definitely need to visit or attend mass at this church.

This is a beautiful old church that you can admire from the outside or the inside interiors.Paete being known for woodcarving can also be proud of this old church. The wonders of this building never ceases to amaze me. Its strong walls and beautiful interiors speak for its aged history. Although, the church underwent a lot of renovation due to natural calamities. The church in itself has been maintained from its old appearance. 

The structure, its presense is beautiful and solemn. I was really impressed by how it was built and how its being taken care of by the locals.

A really beautiful church with lots of History,i was able to get inside and offer some prayers, i  felt very blessed.

Quick Facts on The Roman Catholic Parish Church of Saint James the Apostle - Paete, Laguna

Church Information

Names : The Roman Catholic Parish Church of Saint James the Apostle 

Founded : 1864

Architectural type : baroque 

Location :  Paete, Laguna

Main attraction : The large wall paintings on wood panels inside the church. The intricate retablo which is so beautifully done.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 19 : San Ildefonso Parish Church - Tanay, Rizal

When you go to Tanay you'll come upon a church which is worth a visit.

From what I could tell, this church is beautiful. Its design is unique and amazing. And it has such a fascinating history. The interior of this centuries old church is vivid and endearing. Its exterior and interior facade is well preserve.

If only its facade can speak, you would hear its more than hundred years of history, whispering its story behinds this marvelous church.

San Ildefonso Church is always a part of my itinerary when visiting Tanay. A very nice church and absolutely a must see.

Quick Facts on San Ildefonso Parish Church

Church Information

Names : San Ildefonso Parish Church

Founded : 1783

Architectural type : baroque 

Location : Tanay, Rizal

Main attraction : The 14 Stations of the Cross inside the church and the two huge acacia trees outside the church. It was declared a National Cultural Heritage by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts along with 25 other churches all over the Philippines.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 18 : Saint Gregory the Great Parish Church - Majayjay, Laguna

If you have a penchant for old churches, then this is for you.

The interiors of the church is just so perfect.From outside, you can totally see how interesting this church will be. Its external structure is designed to stimulate people's eyes.It was wonderfully preserved.I love the intricate design of the facade, dome and the retablos. The floor is tiled beautifully.

Remember to bring your camera with you. Quite simply, this is the jewel of the heritage town of Majayjay, Laguna.

Quick Facts on St. Gregory the Great Parish Church (Majayjay)

Church Information

Names : St. Gregory the Great Parish Church 

Founded : 1649

Architectural type : Romanesque

Location : Majayjay, Laguna

Main attraction :  Its facade has three levels, each level scaled proportionally and topped by a triangular pediment with a circular window. The interior is so perfect, and the church contains antique images of santos, reliquaries and century-old liturgical objects with a hexagonal belltower.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 17 : Saint Raymond of Penafort Parish Church - Mangatarem, Pangasinan

This is an extraordinary church. Coming from Tarlac, it will be hard to miss and ignore this church with its green dome on the left side of the road. It is a massive stone Church at the heart of the municipality of Mangatarem.

This is not just another structure or a simple tourist spot.  Interior of the church takes you back in time. At the church you can sense the solemnity and peaceful feeling inside.

This church is one of the best place that I always really like to be at everytime I need somewhere to go to. 

The services of the church and the activities in the church grounds is definitely worth visiting.

Quick Facts on Saint Raymond of Penafort Parish Church - Mangatarem, Pangasinan

Church Information

Names : Saint Raymond of Penafort Parish Church 

Founded : 1837

Architectural type : Baroque

Location : Mangatarem, Pangasinan

Main attraction : Its church is known for having a huge green dome at the center of the church. 

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 16 : Nuestra Senora de Candelaria Church - Mabitac, Laguna

The Nuestra Señora de Candelaria Parish Church informally known as Mabitac Church is a Roman Catholic church located above Calvary or Kalbaryo Hill in Mabitac, Laguna

The first time i visited this magnificent church is  in 2008 where i attended a friend's wedding. Once a the top of the hill you'll get a panoramic view of laguna de bay.

If you get the chance to visit Mabitac, this should definitely be included on your itinerary.

Quick Facts on Nuestra Senora de Candelaria Church

Church Information

Names : Nuestra Senora de Candelaria Church

Founded : 1611 

Architectural type : Baroque

Location : Mabitac, Laguna

Main attraction : Its church is known for having a staircase of more than 120 steps, a panoramic view of the town of Sta. Maria and Laguna lake.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 15 : Baguio Catholic Cathedral - Baguio City, Baguio

My trip to Baguio is not complete without making a visit to the Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral.

The cathedral is accessible to pedestrians from Session Road via 100-step stone staircase that ends at a Calvary, or through the adjacent campus of Saint Louis University.The building was completed and consecrated in 1936, receiving dedication to Our Lady of Atonement.

Despite the amount of people/tourist visiting the church everyday, i still like going here. Its a special place for me.

It may not be as grand as the others, still it would be a perfect place to pay respect & pray.

Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral is one recommended place to see in Baguio.

Quick Facts on The Our Lady of Atonement Cathedr

Church Information

Names : Baguio Cathedral

Founded : 1907

Architectural type : Baroque

Location : Baguio City, Philippines

Main attraction : The cathedral has a distinctive pink façade with a rose window and twin square belfries with pyramidal roofs.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 14 : National Shrine of St. Michael and the Archangels - San Miguel, Manila

This entry aims to create awareness about the National Shrine of St. Michael and the Archangels. The church is also known as Malacañang Church because of its close proxinity to the Palace.

I first learned about this church when a friend from Adamson invited me for  quick visita iglesia within the city of Manila. 

This is the 3rd church we visited that day. Its altar is adorned with beautiful statues of the archangels. A sculpture of St. Michael the Archangel fighting Satan stands outside the church. The church facade is also notable for the beautiful symmetry of its twin bell towers, it follows the mold of European Baroque architecture.

Quick Facts on The National Shrine of St. Michael and the Archangels

Church Information

Names : National Shrine of St. Michael and the Archangels

Founded : 1630

Architectural type : Baroque

Location :1000 Jose P. Laurel Street, San Miguel , 1005 Manila, Philippines

Main attraction :  The Baroque architecture with the beautiful symmetry of its bell towers. 

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 13 : The Basilica Minore de San Sebastian - Quiapo, Manila

San Sebastian Church is one of the bigger churches to visit in Manila. This church is majestic. It has interesting  external architecture and an elaborate interior  with fairly long aisle going to the altar. This church is an example of Gothic Revival architecture, it is the only all-steel church in the country, and claimed as the only prefabricated steel church in the world.

It is depressing, though, to see rust in some of the pillars and walls.  I believe Restoration and stabilization of the century-old steel structure is urgently needed.

Definitely worth a visit for Catholics and those who appreciate old churches. A truly beautiful building.

Quick Facts on The Basilica Minore de San Sebastian

Church Information

Names : The Basilica Minore de San Sebastian

Founded : 1891

Architectural type : Gothic Revival architecture

Location :Plaza Sta. Cruz, Manila

Main attraction :  The very different style than other churches in the country, it Stain glass windows are beautiful. 

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 12 : Malate Church - Malate Manila

This church is dedicated to Nuestra Señora de Remedios, the patroness of childbirth. Facing the Manila Bay through the Plaza Raja Soliman is a 16th century gem, the Malate Church.  When i was in college i always drop by this church after or before a drink at tres marias.

The interior is elegant , the high altar itself is simple, but done in dark wood and gold, and the facade looks really nice, history says it survived WWII.

Not one of the best churches you would have seen but its worth a visit.

Quick Facts on Malate Church

Church Information

Names : Malate Church

Founded : 1624

Architectural type : Baroque

Location :Plaza Sta. Cruz, Manila

Main attraction : The facade which has a twisted column and has in effect a retablo type facade.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 11 : The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene - Quiapo, Manila

Everybody in Manila knows about Quiapo church. Although for some this church is not good for solemn worshipping, but the old style and materials of the church itself is beautiful and has historical vibe that makes it interesting to visit. 

The shopping centers around the area are great, you'll definitely find great buys, just be patient enough to walk around and  I recommend to be extra careful for pickpockets in the area.

Quick Facts on The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene

Church Information

Names : Quiapo Church

Founded : 1686

Architectural type : Baroque

Location :Plaza Sta. Cruz, Manila

Main attraction : The visit to Quiapo church is incomplete without going to the "pahalik", an area where one foot of the Nazareno on the altar is exposed and you can touch and say your prayers. It is located at the back of the church.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 10 : Sta. Cruz Church - Sta. Cruz, Manila

The Church of Santa Cruz is one of the Oldest church in Manila but if you see it now you would think it was just built recently.

What I like the best in Sta Cruz church is the altar, its the lamb of God right infront of its altar that will catch your eyes, it is just amazing to look at.And, the busy streets and noise outside are forgotten once you walk inside this huge and peaceful building.

A magnificent church and an interesting place to visit.

Quick Facts on Sta. Cruz Church


Church Information

Names : Sta. Cruz Church
Founded : 1619
Architectural type : Baroque
Location :Plaza Sta. Cruz, Manila
Main attraction : The church facade is topped with an effigy statue of Our Lady of the Pillar, the patroness of the church whose feast happens during the second week of October.