CHURCHES

 

JARO CATHEDRAL

Jaro Cathedral is the most familiar one to me on this list. Every time we visit Iloilo, we would pass by this church as it’s the closest one to home.

The unique thing about Jaro Cathedral is the location of its belfry or the bell tower. While most churches will have its belfry right next to the fundamental architecture, Jaro Cathedral’s is on the opposite side of the street.

The stairs at the front of the church lead to the shrine of Our Lady of Candles (Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria) and give you a better view of the bell tower. The Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is the only female image among all the male images in the church.

 

MIAG AO CHURCH

Miag-ao Church is famous for the painstakingly detailed sculptural relief on its pediment. The church was built in 1731, and it is considered one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. The Miag-ao church is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The style of the church is considered Baroque Romanesque. Most notable is its two different bell towers, which served as a watchtower to defend the town against the Moro invasion. It is a common misconception though that its massive structure was for military purposes. The truth is, the structure is built in such a way to withstand movement and earthquakes.

SAN JOAQUIN CHURCH

San Joaquin is the southernmost town of Iloilo, so a trip to this church will cost you some time. It’s well worth the trip though.The pediment features the victory of the Spanish over the Moors in Battle of Tétouan. The attention to detail is remarkable. The materials and dyes used for the church’s body and its pediment are all derived from nature.

Considered a National Cultural Treasure, any plans for restoration to the church must be made known to the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP). However, the most recent renovation left the NMP highly criticized as it deteriorated just after a few months.

ST. ANNE CHURCH MOLO

Molo Church is known to be a feminist church or Church of the Women because the images of the saints in the church are all female.

Built in 1831, the church is built out of white coral rock and has been well-preserved since. It was declared a national landmark by the National Historical Institute in 1992.

Across the church, at the Molo plaza, is a structure featuring Greek gods and goddesses. There isn’t a concrete story as to why these were built and placed here.

there are no rules of architecture for a castle in the clouds.  – gilbert