The name hints at it already, as the
translation of this Latin word is “within the walls.” Intramuros, also known as
the Walled City, Intramuros is the oldest district of Manila, the capital of
the Philippines. The city was the seat
of the country’s colonial government during the Spanish era; to this day, it
remains as one of the most prominent relics of that period in Philippine
history.
Building began in the late 16th century to
protect Manila against invasions, which the city became repeatedly subject to
over the years. Located along Manila Bay, south of the Pasig River, the walls were
originally designed to follow the form of those two bodies of water. The city occupies a large area; while a tour
may be accomplished within a few hours, it is better to set aside a whole day
to be able to fully appreciate the sights.
Once
A Prison Fort, Now A Visitor’s Center
One of the city’s main attractions, Fort
Santiago, was a focal point during both Spanish and American regimes. The
Spanish government used it as a prison, and indeed this is where the country’s
national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, awaited his execution. At present, the fort is considered as a
convenient starting point for travelling through the city. The Intramuros Visitors'
Center, located in the fort’s Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier, provides
visitors with brochures and event schedules of activities planned in the city.
Gardens
and Historic Churches
A walk taken in the southeast direction, along
General Luna Street, leads to the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate
Conception. This church is also known as the Manila Cathedral, the Philippines’
Prime Basilica and the seat of the country’s archbishop. Built in 1581, the original structure was a
small church made of palm thatching and bamboo. The cathedral has since been damaged by fires,
wars and natural disasters. The eighth renovation was completed in 1958. The church is one of the largest and most
beautiful in the country.
Travelling two blocks further down will
lead to Calle Real, where the Puerta de Santa Lucia is located. First built in
1603, Puerta de Santa Lucia is one of the city’s most famous gates. Inside are
lush gardens, where a cobblestone bridge goes straight to Malecon Drive. On this
road, travelers can get a closer look at the city’s stone walls and moats that surround
Intramuros.
Another historic church located along Calle
Real is the San Agustin Church. Its
elliptical foundation has allowed it to withstand the numerous earthquakes that
have destroyed many other Manila churches. While the both the size and façade are quite
unassuming, this church is where the Spanish Governor-General Fermin Jaudenes drew
up the terms for Manila’s surrender of Manila to the American forces. San
Agustin Church was also turned into a concentration camp during the Japanese
occupation in World War II. Moreover,
the paintings and features of the church interior are almost as detailed and
intricate as the exterior is as simple. In 1993, San Agustin Church was declared
as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Intramuros sustained heavy damage in the
efforts to free the city from the Japanese Army during World War II.
Reconstruction began in 1951, which is also when Intramuros was declared a
National Historical Monument by the Philippine government. Restorations
continue to this day, and plenty of work still needs to be done. The Global
Heritage Fund has cited Intramuros as one of the world sites in serious danger
of cultural loss and destruction. Some
the structures have been converted into bohemian-type tourist shops. The
on-going development could also explain the narrow walkways and lack of traffic signs; a
traveler should be prepared for some unorthodox driving and pedestrian traffic
rules.
Walking through the Walled City would also
require a good supply of water and rehydrating drink mixes. Manila is known for hot days and rainy
weather, and a humid atmosphere can accompany both conditions. However, the
travel is well worth the travails.
Intramuros, a city within a city, is unlike any throughout the world.
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