People may now have more reasons to visit Manila’s famed wall city, Intramuros as the government launched on June 10, the Centro de Turismo Intramuros, a new tourist hub designed to educate visitors about the city’s rich past and ignite interest, especially among the younger generation.
Located along Calle Arzobispo within the ruins of San Ignacio Church, the center features a museum packed with over 8,000 artifacts, many from the existing Museo de Intramuros.
Through the efforts of the Office of the President and the Office of the First Lady and support from the Department of Tourism and Intramuros Administration, the exhibit aimed to take visitors on a captivating journey through Intramuros’ story, from its pre-colonial roots to its role as a Spanish colonial center, the devastation of World War II, and its ongoing revitalization efforts.
“The intention is to go back to our roots. Learn the history of Intramuros and be inspired by how it rose to the ashes…Now, with the ongoing efforts of the present administration, with Intramuros Administration as well, we’re hoping for a better future for Intramuros,” said lawyer Joan Padilla, Intramuros Administrator.
Beyond the museum, the center also boasts an indoor amphitheater, envisioned as a venue for events and activities, offering potential revenue for the Intramuros Administration.
On the other hand, Philippine Institute of Interior Designers John Paolo Castro shared that the project’s design reflects the vision of First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, making it the “first stop” to get an overview of the entire Intramuros tour.
“That’s actually a special request of the First Lady. She wants the Filipino people to have a place where it’s interactive and to showcase to the world our history,” Castro stated.
The Centro de Turismo Intramuros is set to open its doors to the public for free on June 12, coinciding with the Philippines’ 126th Independence Day celebration.