Intramuros

 

Intramuros also known as the Walled City that was built by the Spaniards during the 16th century which is located at the southern bank of the Pasig River. Its name was derived from the Latin word “intra” and “muros” which means within and walls. Until today, Intramuros still have retained its Spanish influence with its walls, streets and churches which were just retouched to restablize them. Modernization and development mostly occurred outside its walls so that the spectrum of history will never be easily forgotten.

 

Through the campaign of the Department of Tourism, Intramuros have been the most visited tourist attraction in Manila. With its old Spanish flavor, who wouldn’t want to have a little taste of it? From the walls, the once defensive rock formations that defended the Spaniards from outraging Filipinos can now be stepped and walked on. These walls are still the same walls that were built by the men of Miguel Lopez de Legaspi which are about 4 centuries old from now; with its oldness, this experience can somehow be compared to walking on the Great Wall of China. Then the churches, since this plan came from the Spaniards, how would there be no churches built? Because of Christianity, different churches have been built and this is the reason why Filipinos today are very religious. A famous church can be found here, the San Agustin Church and it is also known for being the “Wedding Capital of the Philippines.” Last that I will mention are the plazas. These structures seem to be forgotten when Intramuros, people just take pictures of them then not remember their names. Some of the famous plazas in Intramuros are Plaza Mexico, Plaza de Roma and  Plaza España, though some look at them as boring structures, these are great examples to imagine the lifestyle in the Philippines back in the Hispanic Era.

 

Now to reach Intramuros, there are three modes of transportation to get you there once you’re in Manila. First is the LRT where you just get off at the United Nations Station and it will be a quick stroll in Intramuros. Second is the jeepney where you should take the jeepney that travels to Bonifacio Drive and it will exactly get you there. And lastly, the easiest is to take a taxi for this is a popular destination for taxi drivers. So with the informations about Intramuros, why not visit it now and see for yourself?