Simborio Chapel: A Spanish Architectural Gem Amidst Resilience and Transformation in Plaridel
A heritage site, the Plaridel’s Simborio chapel was built during the 1700’s and it is considered one of the oldest structures in the Bulacan Province
The Meycauayan Church, also referred to as the Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church in Bulacan province, stands as one of the oldest churches in existence today. It predates even the Malolos Cathedral and Barasoain. Founded in 1578 by Franciscan priests Fr. Juan de Plasencia and Fr. Diego de Oropeza, it has a rich history marked by various constructions and renovations.
The Meycauayan Church, also referred to as the Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church in Bulacan province, stands as one of the oldest churches in existence today. It predates even the Malolos Cathedral and Barasoain. Founded in 1578 by Franciscan priests Fr. Juan de Plasencia and Fr. Diego de Oropeza, it has a rich history marked by various constructions and renovations.
The Meycauayan Church, also referred to as the Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church in Bulacan province, stands as one of the oldest churches in existence today. It predates even the Malolos Cathedral and Barasoain. Founded in 1578 by Franciscan priests Fr. Juan de Plasencia and Fr. Diego de Oropeza, it has a rich history marked by various constructions and renovations.
Originally, a small church made of nipa palm leaves and bamboo was erected in 1578 but was unfortunately destroyed by a typhoon in 1588. In response to the locals’ request for a stone church, the Spanish government decreed the construction of an adobe church in 1589. This served as the town’s place of worship until 1668 when it was relocated to its present site due to attacks by natives.
In 1668, Fray Nicolas Santiago initiated the construction of the stone church that still stands today. Remarkably, it was one of the first towns in the country to have its parish and municipal halls within the same vicinity. The church underwent further developments, including the construction of the present convent in 1731 and the addition of a bell tower in 1800.
The bell tower, built by Father Francisco GascueƱa, is unique with a large arch bridge connecting it to the church’s base. The tower housed five bells, with the largest one named Maria Conception in 1878. Father GascueƱa, beloved by the parishioners, was buried beneath the main altar upon his death in 1831.
Throughout the years, the church saw renovations and repairs, with notable contributions from Father Balbino de Consuerga and Father Benito de Madridejos. Unfortunately, during the Philippine-American War, the church and its convent were used as a headquarters by the American army, leading to damage and loss of possessions.
The church, resilient against the destruction of World War II, faced a massive fire in 1949 known as “The Great Fire of Meycauayan.” While records, vestments, statues, and memorabilia were lost, some items, like the tabernacle, were saved and are now displayed in the parish museum. The community came together to rebuild the church after the fire.
Recent restoration efforts focused on the interior walls and sanctuary, recreating the neoclassic altarpiece of Father Benito Madridejos. Despite the challenges it faced, the Meycauayan Church remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the community and its commitment to preserving its historical and religious heritage. Notably, the church houses the Cross of Sitio Torril, a relic brought by the Franciscans in the early years of the town’s settlement, displayed annually during the October 4th celebration for public veneration.
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