Sigpawan Festival
Each year, the Sigpawan Festival, which is held in Lemery, Batangas, takes place on Easter Sunday. The highlight of the festival is the Fluvial procession
- Calaca, Batangas
PUBLISHED April 6, 2007
PHOTOGRAPHY and WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO
Built in 1836, the Calaca Church or Church of San Rafael stands out with its spectacular façade design and elaborately decorated intricate designs. Its fame as one of the most sought-after venues for special occasions such as weddings and baptisms make it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
This beautiful church, located in the small town of Calaca, Batangas, was established in 1836 following the labor and effort of local people. In order to build this remarkable church, its creators gathered materials such as sand, stone, wood and adobe from nearby Balayan town – travelling via Pansipit River in small boats. After enough materials had been collected and the hard labor of many locals had been put in, the church was finally completed in 1861 and then dedicated to San Rafael the Archangel – the patron of healers, doctors, and travelers alike!
This beautiful church, located in the small town of Calaca, Batangas, was established in 1836 following the labor and effort of local people. In order to build this remarkable church, its creators gathered materials such as sand, stone, wood and adobe from nearby Balayan town – travelling via Pansipit River in small boats. After enough materials had been collected and the hard labor of many locals had been put in, the church was finally completed in 1861 and then dedicated to San Rafael the Archangel – the patron of healers, doctors, and travelers alike!
Although there are many myths circulating the small town regarding this church, the most popular one is that the Archangel San Rafael himself descended as a little boy and miraculously stopped a storm surge that would have engulfed the entire town.
Due to its age, the Church of San Raphael has undergone a great number of restorations over the years in order to keep it beautiful for all to see and enjoy. One of the most remarkable features that draw people in to this church is its exquisitely painted dome ceiling – featuring a beautiful chandelier near the altar.
For centuries, pilgrims have been visiting the Church of San Raphael to take in the history, views and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere present at Calaca Church. So, why not join them and make a stop to this sacrosanct site to experience the beauty of this place!
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