Legend tells of a small dark-skinned boy who visited the shores of Calaca town during a strong typhoon when he miraculously stopped the giant storm and the raging waves that can destroy the entire municipality by simply waving his hands. That small boy is told to be San Raphael in disguise, an Archangel who is known to be the patron of the sick, the blind, travelers, doctors and many more. It is with the Archangel the 184-year old Spanish Colonial era church got its name from. Hence, the Calaca Church or better known as Saint Raphael the Archangel Parish.

Built at the year 1836 by locals after the establishment of the town of Calaca, the church remains an important piece of history as well as one of the oldest. Several restorations have undergo in the church throughout the years due to its ever-ageing status. One of the church’s most remarkable feature is its intricately-painted dome in the ceiling, where it holds a beautiful chandelier just before the altar.

The church is located at the municipality of Calaca, Batangas Province Philippines. Be sure to visit the historical church when you are nearby!