Malate, Manila

Malate Church

A Testament to Faith, Resilience, and Heritage

PUBLISHED July 4, 2013

PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

Malate Church stands as a profound symbol of faith, resilience, and artistry, preserving its sacred role and architectural splendor through centuries of triumphs and trials. Its rich history and unique design continue to captivate visitors and inspire devotion among the faithful. As both a cultural treasure and spiritual haven, Malate Church invites everyone to experience its timeless grace and enduring legacy.

Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Malate Church with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!

Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Malate Church. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.

The Our Lady of Remedies Parish, more commonly referred to as Malate Church, stands proudly in Malate, Manila, overlooking the scenic Plaza Rajah Sulayman and facing the iconic Manila Bay. This historical masterpiece, renowned for its Mexican Baroque-inspired architecture, is dedicated to Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, the patroness of childbirth. Notably, it is the oldest parish in the Philippines managed by the Society of St. Columban and the most ancient among the 17 churches honoring Nuestra Señora de los Remedios as patroness. At the heart of the church is a revered statue of the Virgin Mary as Our Lady of Remedies, brought from Spain in 1624, which continues to be a focal point of devotion for the faithful.

Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.

Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.

ABOVE: The Pieta, a Christian art piece showing the Virgin Mary holding Jesus’ body after his crucifixion, can be seen at Malate Church.

Origins and Early Construction

The story of Malate Church begins in 1591 when Malate had a single church and convent dedicated to the Nativity of Our Lady (Conception). However, both structures suffered significant damage during the 1645 Luzon Earthquake. Described as “a magnificent work of arches and stone” by the Augustinians, the church and convent were later demolished in 1667 under Governor Sabiniano Manrique de Lara’s orders due to the threat of pirate raids.

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ABOVE: Sampaguita vendors can often be found outside Malate Church, selling the fragrant flowers to visitors.

The present church traces its roots to Fr. Dionisio Suarez, who, in 1677, began constructing a new church and convent using bricks and stone. This effort was completed by Fr. Pedro de Mesa in 1680. Despite challenges, including a lack of funds, the church rose as a sanctuary for devotion to the Virgen de los Remedios, whose ivory statue, characterized by graceful features, drew women who presented their children to her, particularly on Saturdays.

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Trials of War and Natural Disasters

Throughout its history, Malate Church has faced adversity. During the British Occupation of Manila in 1762, the church was seized and used as a military headquarters, sustaining severe damage. Another catastrophe struck in 1868 when a typhoon destroyed the structure. Undeterred, Fr. Francisco Cuadrado initiated the construction of a new church in 1864, a project that was nearly completed except for the façade. Between 1894 and 1898, Fr. Nicolas Dulanto oversaw the completion of the upper façade, enhancing its architectural beauty.

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The church also survived other tumultuous events, including the Chinese Invasion of 1662, the Great Earthquake of 1863, and the devastating bombings of February 1945 during the liberation of Manila in World War II, which reduced the church and convent to ruins. It was the Columban Fathers who spearheaded the restoration in the 1950s, rebuilding key elements such as the roof, altar, dome, and transept. By 1978, meticulous efforts had restored the exterior to its original stone and brick hues.

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Architectural Significance

Malate Church’s architectural design is a fusion of Mexican Baroque and Moorish influences, showcasing a unique “mudejarisimo Filipino” style. The façade features a central rectangular body flanked by two cylindrical buttresses shaped into hexagonal forms, serving as bell towers. Intricate stone carvings, including the Augustinian flaming heart symbol, adorn the entrance, while twisted columns—a hallmark of Mexican Baroque—add height and elegance.

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The use of trefoil blind arches, a nod to Moorish art, is evident in the design. The façade is structured with Romanesque columns on the first level, twisted columns on the second, and blind balusters, achieving a striking balance of massiveness and ornamentation. The plain pediment suggests Renaissance influences, further enriching the church’s eclectic style.

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ABOVE: Malate Church and the Franciscan church in Daraga are the only two churches with twisted columns and a retablo-style façade

A Legacy of Devotion

The devotion to Nuestra Señora de los Remedios has made Malate Church a sanctuary for countless pilgrims. Its history is one of faith and resilience, having withstood wars, earthquakes, typhoons, and fire. Today, the church remains a beacon of hope and a testament to Manila’s rich cultural and religious heritage, drawing visitors and devotees alike to its hallowed grounds.

Whether you come for its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual solace, Malate Church invites all to experience its timeless grace and enduring legacy.

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