Intramuros

From Manila Chinatown, I headed off to the old area of Manila - Intramuros.

From the calesa, this time the ride was the jeepney.

The first stop was the Manila Cathedral, all majestic & grand. All around the church grounds were yellow ribbons - for interestingly, that is the final day of the late Corazon Aquino's wake.

The atmoshpere was serene and very there is that feeling of greatness of the leader and I felt honoured to be there, at that time. The only setback - I didn't get to enter one of the most important churches in the Philippines, as it was closed.

Not too far away, I visited the former military headquarters of the Spanish colonial government - Fort Santiago. It is quite well maintained - and apparently has been restored.

The small drizzle made the weather very cool, and the walk around the fort very nice. Of course it helps that the fort is quite huge as well - one of the bigger forts I've been to.

I particularly like this wall - the almacenes reals. Simply perfect for a location shoot!

Moving on from the fort, I headed next to this road behind the Manila Cathedral... and to another church - the San Augustine Church.

I've seen many churches lately and this is one of the more beautiful ones. Rather grand indeed.

Apparently, this is the oldest stone church standing in the Philippines & is also listed in UNESCO under Baroque Churches of the Philippines.


Opposite the church is this house turn museum showcasing the Intramuros home - Casa Manila. It's a pity too that I missed this. I would have loved to see how grand the interior is, and how lavish the owners used to stay.

And finally, the day ended with one parting shot of the new Manila city opposite and beyond the golf course.

And that brings me to near the closing of this Philippines & Manila visit. The final post about Philippines - food! :)