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A City of History: Manila
A tour of Manila after the 16th century, when historical records of the Philippines began to be made.

The area where Manila Bay and the Pasig River intersect used to be a center of commerce and trade. Spain, which occupied the Philippines starting in 1571, recognized the area’s geopolitical significance, resulting in the construction of Intramuros. The walls of this fortress-city were mostly destroyed during World War II; today, only a small section survives as a testament to its former grandeur. Intramuros’ medieval fortress, cathedral, and a museum offer a telling account of the history of the Philippines.

Baluarte de San Diego

Baluarte de San Diego, constructed in 1586, is considered Manila’s oldest stone bastion. The version that greets tourists today is a recreation of the original, which was destroyed over the course of several wars and earthquakes. The entrance gives way to a garden, beyond which you can see an old fortress wall. Once you reach the top of the wall via the stairs, you can see three large circular structures made of stone that interlock at a distance of several meters of one another. This is regarded as the site of the original tower. The lot next to the outermost wall features busts of leaders of the Philippines, including Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president; and Corazon Aquino, the first female president.

Baluarte de San Diego

San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church is Manila’s oldest Baroque stone cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also known as a “miracle church” because it survived seven earthquakes over 400 years, as well as the World War II bombing by Japan that obliterated Manila. Once you pass through the intricately-carved front door and enter the building, you immediately feel the cathedral’s majestic Baroque beauty in the chandeliers and frescoes on the ceiling, created by Italian artists. The museum, which is located in the inner courtyard, displays many items of religious art, including oil paintings that were hung in churches of the past, as well as clerical robes.

Light and Sound Museum

The Light and Sound Museum reenacts the history of the Philippines’ independence movement through, as suggested by its name, lights and sound. The museum, which displays mannequins and sculptures of historic figures, alongside illustrations and dioramas of historic scenes, has a unique way of showcasing prominent patriots: when a curator points a flashlight, in the dark, at a wall, you will see images of individuals such as Andres Bonifacio and Jose Rizal wherever the light hits. While moving through the museum with the guidance of a curator, you will hear narrations of historic events that are peppered with sound effects, giving a feeling as if you’ve seen an animated film. The final stop of the tour includes a door; once you open it, the museum will fill with light, a visualization of Filipino history passing through a dark phase to move toward a future of hope.

Light and Sound Museum