Intramuros - the Old Manila

A sweet essence from the past welcomes anyone who dares enter the classic landmark known as Intramuros. Located in the southern coast of the Pasig River, this 64-hectare piece of land is embraced by towering, concrete walls that form a pentagonal frontier. The name comes from the Latin word which translates to “within the walls” in English. It was originally a Chinese settlement but the Spaniards built the “walled structure” in 1571 as a defense of Manila from foreign invaders. Though not as extensive as that of China’s, this “great wall” was a commercial, political, and cultural center during Spain’s dominion in Asia. Now, Intramuros still holds its head up high as tourists from across the globe come and admire its unique splendor. Ready for a tour? Come and see the wonders of Intramuros!

Intramuros is virtually a “walled” city that conceals itself from the hustling and bustling streets of Manila. This territory is home to museums, churches, schools, government offices, and restaurants in classic architecture, making history very much “present” in every corner of the streets of Intramuros. Through reconstruction, these places remained steadfast in spite of natural catastrophes that have almost plagued their existence. The distinguished Fort Santiago is a worthy example. Built as the headquarters of the Spanish army, this remnant of the past is now a public park, which was constructed in memory of our national hero, Jose Rizal. Here, one can find dark and low dungeons that were just enough for few people to fit in. These dungeons have gigantic inner doors built with massive iron bars, and outer doors were made with wood on iron frame and they are locked using enormous chains. Also quite eye-catching are the tiny footprints of Jose Rizal in gold-plated alloy. The footprints, being so short-distanced, one can almost picture the pain of Rizal as he was sluggishly being brought to Bagumbayan, where the Spaniards finally shot him to death. Walking further into Fort Santiago, a Holy Cross can be seen. It was the burial ground for almost 600 Filipino and American soldiers who were victims of starvation and suffocation in the dungeons where their bodies were found. The famous Rizal museum can also be found here. It houses an original collection of journals and writings, like “Mi Ultimo Adios”, which was the poem he wrote before his death. Rizal’s antique furniture and belongings, some of which date back even to the day of his birth, can also be found here.

Roughly a hundred steps from the war bastion is the Manila Cathedral, which has been continually renovated due to fire and earthquakes. The cathedral is noted for its wide door, which is made of bronze with eight rows, which shows the church’s history in intricate artistic embossment. Walking further, magnificent and multicolored glass paintings can be viewed from both sides; they glorify the sacredness of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. Located just in front of the cathedral is Plaza Roma, a silent and serene park that gives one an excellent view of the Cathedral. A puzzling irony about it is that this location was once teeming with noisy people; it was a place where people cheer for their bets in the bullfights that were held here. Juxtaposed to the plaza is the Palacio del Gobernador, the residence and main office of the governor-general and administrators of the high courts during the Spanish regime, before its transfer to Malcanang Palace. Presently, it houses several government offices and it is also where the Land Bank main office is located.

The next destination is a notable heirloom from Spain, the San Agustin Church. Originally constructed with bamboo and nipa, this church was built at the verge of the defeat of Rajah Soliman from Legazpi in 1571, making it the oldest church in Intramuros. The façade shaped in Roman architecture and the pale external color of the church gives one an idea of how much history is kept within. Just like the Manila Cathedral, glass paintings of the Virgin Mary can also be seen. Fourteen statues of different saints placed in small chapel-like enclosures can also be observed inside. Entombed beneath some of them are the bodies of eminent conquistadors, or Spanish conquerors. Adjacent to the church is the San Agustin Museum where religious paintings and sculpture are displayed.

Passion fills the air as one walks through the gates of Casa Manila. A setting for many romantic films, this 19th century mansion is really worth a visit. It was once a residence of a wealthy Spanish family but half of it is now converted to a museum where 16th to 19th century types of furniture are exhibited. A few more steps from the Casa are fast food chains and restaurants that will surely fill your belly. The Mc Donald’s, Chowking, and Max’s that are located here are not the most accustomed ones you see on the streets. They are built in classic architecture and tend to adapt with Intramuros’ archetypal design. Also noteworthy is the Ciudad de Fernandina restaurant that serves different Filipino dishes. The structure camouflages itself by attaching to the wall of Intramuros.

After a tasty meal, a walk along the high walls, which are made of cobblestones, follows. Some walls are detached to the others so one cannot continuously walk its 4.4-km span. The original stones even have markings in them to distinguish them from the new stones that have been added to them. A spectacular view of the Manila City Hall and a huge span of golf course can be seen along these walls. Some of the walls even have cannons and watchtowers, which were used as defense during the Spanish regime. Beside them are stone benches where people can sit and chat while observing the spectacular view of Manila.

After that short tour of Intramuros, it is quite apparent that this small piece of land is home to so much well-preserved history. That is why many historical structures have already been demolished through time, but not Intramuros. It is one of the few remaining sites that collide the present with the past, and the past with the present, and is virtually a transit to the Spanish regime. It is a place enriched with memories that have painted our history. Cherishing and preserving it is the only way we could save this wonderful remembrance of a rich era from the past.