One of the well-honored traditions in a predominantly Catholic country such as ours is the Visita Iglesia. Finding its roots in 1553, the Visita Iglesia is considered a type of pilgrimage wherein the faithful visit seven churches and pray before the Blessed Sacrament. Today, this practice still holds meaning but more and more see the Visita Iglesia as a time for the family to get together and pray, as well as to rediscover some of the Philippines’ forgotten history.
They say that if you complete your pilgrimage to the seven churches, your prayers and wishes will be granted.
This coming Holy Week, tread to these beloved Churches that will inspire your faith and deepen your appreciation for our religious history.
Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Otherwise known as the Manila Cathedral, this church is located within the beautiful walled city of Intramuros, Manila, and serves as the Episcopal See of the Archbishop of Manila. It was originally built in 1581, and while it has been damaged several times, the current structure has been standing since 1958. Manila Cathedral has a papal endorsement from Pope Gregory XIII, and has been visited by three popes: Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, and, most recently, Pope Francis. Its Neo-Romanesque style with patinated dome, marble floors, polished columns, vaulted ceilings and high altar make it one of the most beautiful churches in the country.
San Agustin Church
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San Agustin Church is another church located within the walled city of Intramuros. Succeeding from churches built of bamboo and nipa, and thereafter of wood, the stone edifice was constructed in 1586 and completed in 1607. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations due to damage by war and natural calamities. In 1993, it was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Today, it remains one of the most popular churches for weddings.Basilica Menor de San Sebastian
San Sebastian Church, completed in 1891, is a unique sight because of its Gothic revival architecture with its twin tower steel columns, vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows. Located in Quiapo, Manila, it is the only church in the Philippines to be made of prefabricated steel, and it is run by the Order of the Augustinian Recollects. The church was made into a minor basilica by Pope Leo XIII on June 24, 1890, and was proclaimed a National Historical Landmark in 1973. It has been said that Gustave Eiffel, the brilliant engineer who designed the Eiffel Tower, was involved in its construction. However, this claim has never been supported.
St. James the Great Church
St. James the Great Parish in Ayala, Alabang is a newer church structure compared to the others on this list having been completed only in 1995, but it is not lacking in style and beauty. Named after James, the son of Zebedee and one of the first disciples, the patron was chosen by the late Cardinal Sin and Jaime Zobel de Ayala. With its intricate designs, columns and porticos, manicured courtyard and the charming fountain in its gardens, it is an opulent space in an affluent community. Upon entering the church, granite flooring, arched ceilings with square molding, and wide windows lead to an impressive gilded altar.
St. Mary Magdalene Church of Kawit
Dating back to 1737, Kawit Church is known as the place where the Philippines’ first president, Emilio Aguinaldo, was baptized. Located in Kawit, Cavite, the church’s patroness is Mary Magdalene, and a life-sized statue of the saint is housed inside. This beloved statue is the source of many stories and tall tales as the Lady bears a mole-like mark on her forehead, which locals have been unable to explain.
Chapel of the Transfiguration
The Caleruega Church, as it is more commonly known, is located in Batulao, Nasugbu, Batangas. Founded in 1995, it is now a popular site for weddings because of its picturesque location atop a hill surrounded by nature. The interiors are comprised of beautiful stained glass decor at the altar which depict the Transfiguration, a wooden finish to the A-frame ceiling, and tiled floors with an exterior of brick and cobblestones. Named after the birthplace of St. Dominic de Guzman, father of the Dominican Order, Calaruega Church exudes calm and helps the lost to reconnect with their faith.
Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Manaoag
A bit farther up North, located in Manaoag, Pangasinan, this church was officially declared a basilica on Feb. 17, 2015. It was canonically affiliated by Pope Benedict XVI to the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome on June 21, 2011. Enshrining the 17th-century ivory image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Manaoag is a major pilgrimage site for devotees. Many visit it to light candles, offer flowers, and ask for intercession as Our Lady is believed to grant many miracles and blessings.
