San Agustin Church
Known as one of the most important baroque churches in the Philippines and as one of the only four baroque churches in the Philippines that
THE BEAUTY OF
- Intramuros, Manila
PUBLISHED January 18, 2009
PHOTOGRAPHY and WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO
Originally built in 1880, the Manila Cathedral is the current version of the longstanding Church of Manila. It is a masterpiece of architecture that was constructed between 1954 and 1958, in the wake of the destruction of the previous structure during World War II, under the supervision of Filipino architect Fernando H. Ocampo. Almost every detail on the walls, doors, panels, portals, and even the stained glass is a testament to its intricate workmanship.
This Cathedral has two roles that it serves: it serves as the Philippine Prime Basilica, and it serves as the highest seat for the Archbishop. In addition, the cathedral serves as the final resting place of former prelates who have served the Archdiocese of Manila over the years.
Sculpted in Roman travertine stone, the main façade of Manila Cathedral displays statues of famous saints who are represented by the altar pillars, which feature St. Catherine Labourne, St. Lawrence of Brindisi, St. Pius V, and St. Leo IX as saints. As part of the main altar, there is a tabernacle depicting Mary receiving the body of Jesus from the hands of St. John, and there is a communion rail made of rosette orange, cream and white marble on the altar.
This Cathedral has two roles that it serves: it serves as the Philippine Prime Basilica, and it serves as the highest seat for the Archbishop. In addition, the cathedral serves as the final resting place of former prelates who have served the Archdiocese of Manila over the years.
Sculpted in Roman travertine stone, the main façade of Manila Cathedral displays statues of famous saints who are represented by the altar pillars, which feature St. Catherine Labourne, St. Lawrence of Brindisi, St. Pius V, and St. Leo IX as saints. As part of the main altar, there is a tabernacle depicting Mary receiving the body of Jesus from the hands of St. John, and there is a communion rail made of rosette orange, cream and white marble on the altar.
On the left side is the Episcopal Throne, which is used by the Archbishop of Manila. It’s made out of marble from Carrara, Italy. Under the main altar is the crypt, which contains the mortal remains of past archbishops.
There are also many noteworthy features on the central door of the Manila Cathedral, including an artistic reflection of some of Manila Cathedral’s most important moments in history. There are 134 stained-glass windows throughout the whole cathedral.
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