subject: Rediscover your faith at the Manila Cathedral [print this page] Rediscover your faith at the Manila Cathedral
In the devoutly Catholic nation of Philippines, the Manila Cathedral holds a special place in the hearts and minds of its people, not least because is the home of the Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. This diocese is considered to be the most powerful in Asia and dates back to the late 16th century, when it was created to oversee all of the Spanish colonies in Asia.
The Roman Catholic faith being one of the gifts left by the Spanish colonists, it is also fitting that the Manila Cathedral also sports several distinctly Iberian architectural sections. The main faade of the cathedral has three arches with the central one being the largest. It also has stone sculptures of revered saints of the Catholic faith such as St. Rose of Lima (patroness of the Philippines), St. Jacob the Great, St. Polycarp, the patron of saint of Manila, St. Francis Xavier, St. Andrew the Apostle and St. Anthony Abbot.
The history of the cathedral is a checkered one, with a few natural disasters befalling it throughout the years. The first cathedral was constructed by the Spanish in 1581 and was destroyed just a year later by a typhoon. The cathedral was subsequently rebuilt with stone but was again destroyed an earthquake in 1600. The present day Cathedral of Manila was built in 1958 following the destruction of its predecessor due to bombing during the Second World War.
The Manila Cathedral is a site of pilgrimage for many Filipino's who come to strengthen their faith. Located a short drive outside the city, in the Intramuros District of Manila, this is a site of great historical significance that every tourist should pencil in on their itinerary.
For tourists staying at a serviced apartment Manila such as the Somerset Olympia transportation links can be found easily. The luxury serviced residence Manila is usually located close to public transportation links and also offers chauffeur-driven taxis to places outside the city.
