July 15, 2007

The Manila Cathedral & Plaza Roma




The Manila Cathedral

This cathedral is also known as the Minore Basilica of the Immaculate Concepcion. This cathedral has been rebuilt seven times. the first church made of nipa and bamboo was constructed in 1581 but was destroyed by typhoon the next year, rebuilt but burned the following year. The stone cathedral was completed in 1592. destroyed by earthquake in 1600, 1645 and 1863. The sixth version of the cathedral was completed in 1879 but was destroyed during the Second World War. The present church was constructed in 1954 to 1958. The octagonal dome is the main feature of this magnificent edifice with a pair of stained glass on each side. Stained glasses are also prominent on each chapel at the right and left nave of the cathedral depicting acts of faith. Stone sculpture of famous saints adorned the facade of the cathedral.



Plaza Roma

Just in front of the Manila Cathedral is Plaza Roma, where the statue of King Carlos IV now stands, it was erected in 1824 as a tribute to the King for bringing the very first smallpox vaccine here in the Philippines. Used to be called Plaza Mayor during the Spanish regime, the plaza was used for public events and bullfights but was converted into a garden in 1797. Named Plaza Roma in the 1960 after an agreement between the Vatican and the Philippine government



HOW TO GET THERE:

****from the CARRIEDO LRT STATION, take a walk to the front of the Sta. Cruz Church. Take a jeepney that goes to "pier", this jeepney will pass directly in front of the Cathedral. Plaza Roma is just in front.****if you are on a walking trip, from the CENTRA LRT STATION, walk pass the Manila City Hall take the pedestrian underpass and enter the gate through the walled city of Intramuros. At the left before the entrance is Revellin De Recoletos and at the right is Baluarte de Dilao which is acesible once inside the wall. Walk straight Victoria St. at the right side of the Manila High School, turn right at Gen. Luna. You will pass by San Agustin Church and Plazuela De Sta. Isabel. The back of the Cathedral is right after the parking area.

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