As French embracing the Philippines as our second home, we’ve fallen in love with its stunning landscapes and warm-hearted people. But you know what else has completely stolen our hearts? The rich and fascinating history of this incredible country!
The Philippines is a treasure trove of historical wonders waiting to be explored, from ancient civilizations to Spanish colonial charm. As foreigners, it’s our privilege and responsibility to understand and appreciate the roots of the country we now call home. So come, let’s time-travel together through the Top 12 historical places in the Philippines.
Intramuros, Manila
Intramuros, a true gem of historical places in the Philippines, takes us back to the Spanish colonial era that shaped our nation’s identity. You can explore the old walls and fortifications and hear stories about battles and cultural exchanges.
There are historical landmarks like Fort Santiago, where Dr Jose Rizal, the national hero, was kept, and the San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Intramuros is not only a historical place but also a fun place to learn about our history and culture. You can join guided tours to hear all the exciting events that happened here in the past. When you walk around Intramuros, it feels like you’ve traveled back in time, and that’s why people who love history and take pictures enjoy visiting here.
Corregidor Island, Cavite
Corregidor Island is an important part of our country’s history, especially during World War II. It was a crucial fortress that defended the Philippines against the Japanese forces.
When you visit Corregidor Island and its historical places, you can see the remains of the military buildings, like the tunnels and gun emplacements, and remember the brave soldiers who fought for our country.
Paoay Church, Ilocos Norte
Built-in the early 18th century, Paoay Church, also known as the St. Augustine Church, is one of the must-visit historical places in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Its unique architectural style, Earthquake Baroque, features massive buttresses supporting the church against earthquakes. The church’s design reflects the ingenuity and resilience of the Filipino people in adapting to their environment.
Banaue Rice Terraces
These terraces are often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” due to their impressive size and beauty. Carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people around 2,000 years ago, they are some of the most remarkable historical places in the Philippines.
Besides their cultural significance, the Banaue Rice Terraces offer breathtaking panoramic views, making it a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Magellan’s Cross, Cebu
This old cross is one of the country’s most respected ancient objects in a small chapel near the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu. It shows where Ferdinand Magellan first brought Christianity to the Philippines in 1521, making it a significant historical place in the Philippines.
The cross is an important symbol of faith and heritage for Filipinos and attracts many pilgrims and tourists.
Barasoain Church, Bulacan
From the late 16th century, Barasoain Church played an important part in the country’s fight for freedom. Barasoain Church is where they wrote the Malolos Constitution – the first constitution of its kind in Asia and the place of the First Philippine Congress in 1898.
Visiting this old church lets you walk in the footsteps of the nation’s ancestors and understand the challenges and dreams that led to the country’s birth.
Vigan, Ilocos Sur
Vigan, one of the most captivating historical places in the Philippines, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few remaining Spanish colonial towns in the country. It was established in the 16th century by the Spanish colonizers and has been preserved over the years, giving visitors a glimpse of what life was like.
Stroll along Calle Crisologo, a well-preserved cobblestone street, and be amazed at the ancestral houses that line its sides, providing a nostalgic atmosphere.
Kawit, Cavite
Kawit holds a significant place in Philippine history as it is the birthplace of Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines.
The Aguinaldo Shrine, his ancestral house, is a museum that houses personal belongings, artifacts, and historical documents from the revolution era. The Philippine flag was raised in this house, signifying the country’s independence from Spanish rule in 1898.
Museo ni Jose Rizal, Calamba, Laguna
This museum showcases the life and works of Dr. Jose Rizal, a national hero and a key figure in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonization. You can find it in Calamba, Laguna, the hometown of Rizal.
The museum showcases various memorabilia, including Rizal’s personal belongings, manuscripts, and artworks, providing a glimpse into his passion for reforms and his love for the country.
Cagsawa Ruins, Albay
The Cagsawa Ruins, one of the historical places in the Philippines, is a sad reminder of how powerful nature can be. It was a beautiful church until the Mayon Volcano erupted in 1814 and covered it in volcanic ash.
Now, the ruins look picturesque against the backdrop of Mount Mayon’s perfect cone and show how the people here are strong and brave despite tough times.
Biak na Bato National Park, Bulacan
Biak na Bato National Park is a natural wonder and an important part of our history. During the Philippine Revolution against Spain, it was a safe place and the main base of the revolutionary government.
Inside the park, you can explore limestone caves and see writings left by the revolutionaries, which gives us a fascinating look into our fight for freedom and independence.
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Bataan
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is a unique destination that brings history to life. It’s like stepping into the past with its collection of old houses from different parts of the Philippines, but it’s not exactly a historical place like the others.
Instead, it’s more like a place specially built to help us learn about our history. The houses are built to look like they did a long time ago, and you can explore them to get a feel of what life was like back then. We had so much fun exploring them and imagining life in the past. It’s like time-traveling without a time machine! We even made a mini guide about visiting Las Casas to share this unique experience.
As 2 French in Manila, we learned that history isn’t just about facts and dates; it’s about knowing a nation’s soul and its people’s roots. It’s something important and precious to us. What’s something new you learned from our blog?
