Why choose between “gala” and goal when you can do both? Explore the historic sites in Manila where you can achieve a “gala” with the goal of learning as the Philippines celebrates its 126th Independence Day this June 2024.
This kind of Pinoy “gala” or wandering is suitable for all generations. It can be a looking back at history with family and friends. It can also be an interesting, fun, and new information for the little chikitings of the family. So make sure to bring your loved ones with you.
These locations offer the sights and sounds from the historical past that bring you face-to-face with the eras’ artistic creations. They also make you appreciate history while creating a new core memory to treasure with your beloved travel-mates.
These are some of the historic locations that will undoubtedly fulfill your educational goal while providing you with a delightful stroll.
Centro de Turismo Intramuros
First on the list is the newly opened interactive museum in the Old Ignacio Church, the Centro de Turismo Intramuros. You will surely enjoy roaming around with people of all ages while learning the history of Intramuros through the featured sculptures, old artifacts, and religious icons.
Phones are a big help for this interactive museum as they can be used to scan some QR codes that will lead you to watch educational videos to help you understand the history of the artifacts on display.
The museum opened last June 12 to celebrate the 126th Philippine Independence Day. The Centro de Turismo Intramuros is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entrance is free and walk-ins are welcome.
San Agustin Church and Museum
While you’re still in Intramuros, why not visit the San Agustin Church? It’ll surely leave your family with a core memory of being able to stand on the oldest stone church in the Philippines that is styled in Neoclassical-Baroque. You may also consider attending their Sunday Mass at 10 AM. You can explore the history of the church through its museum.
Your eyes will surely feast on the fascinating architecture of the Church, particularly the ceiling, painted in an all-original trompe l’oeil style that gives a three-dimensional impression. Inside the church, you’ll witness amazing collections of religious art and antiques, including antique chest drawers and cabinets, Juan Luna’s tombstone, and more.
READ MORE: Centuries-old San Agustin Church in Intramuros gets free restoration cleanup with German technology
Rizal Park
Still up for more? Here’s Rizal Park, a historic urban park in Manila where you can picnic with your family. You may spread a mat and eat before proceeding to the next stop.
Rizal Park may no longer be new to you and your family but its attractions can spark interest and enjoyment for everyone.
On the side of Jose Rizal’s monument, a solemn statue of Gomburza is standing. It is the representation of the three martyrs – Father Mariano Gomez, Father Jose Burgos, and Father Jacinto Zamora – who played important roles in the quest for Philippine Independence from the Spanish colonizers.
The statue marks the location of the execution of Gomburza on February 17, 1872. They were put to death through a garrote for fighting for the rights of the Filipinos against the abuses of the Spanish authorities.
The commemoration of the 152nd Anniversary of Martyrdom of the three martyrs- Father Mariano Gomez, Father Jose Burgos, and Father Jacinto Zamora. https://t.co/P4kg0Sp0MZ
— Shaira (@shaira_gab) June 11, 2024
A few more steps will lead you to the site of the Martyrdom of Jose Rizal. The art pieces will walk you through the execution ceremony of the Filipino national hero in 1896. These statues offer history through art where you can still learn even if you’re no longer in school or even when you’re just outside the four corners of the classroom. This is an art that lets you feel like you are time traveling with the family as you witness one of the reasons why we can now openly celebrate being Filipino.
At last, you may simply sit next to the fountain and enjoy its beauty after a long, exhausting wandering around. Stay until the sun sets if you still can. Kids will surely enjoy the fountain’s flickering, multicolored lights that are more lovely at night.
Fountain lights show project of THE BOYZ Projects PH at the Luneta Park. https://t.co/cwLgRAkRkX
— Shaira (@shaira_gab) June 11, 2024
Bahay Nakpil-Bautista
To finally end our journey, why not try a house tour in the ancient home of the Nakpil-Bautista family in Quiapo?
Bahay Nakpil-Bautista was constructed in 1914 by Arcadio Arellano, a renowned and innovative architect of his era. The residence served not only as a home to the Nakpil and Bautista family, but also to Gregoria De Jesus, wife of the slain revolutionary hero, Andres Bonifacio, and later of Julio Nakpil.
You’ll never get bored with the stories this house could tell. This has been home to the Dambana ni Oriang and the Museo ng Katipunan. Children’s interest may also be sparked when they see the children’s room which was later converted into a reading area.
The Bahay Nakpil-Bautista is open Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 4 PM.
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