San Agustin Church in Manila is a Roman Catholic Church, under the patronage of the order of St. Augustine which is located within the sacred walls of Intramuros. It is the oldest church of Philippines which still stands proud and strong.
It was completed way back in 1607 and boasts of a history which runs back to 1571. It was rebuilt three times in 1571, 1586 and 1607. This time-honored structure was a design of Juan Macias and he has used the Baroque style in constructing this church. The church is 67.15 meters long and 24.93 meters wide and is made out of adobe stones. The edifice has resisted many earthquakes due to its elliptical foundation which keeps it hefty and hardy. Over the centuries, this church has withstood many battles, yet still it brings glory to Manila. The church has also miraculously survived many fires as well.
Its ornate carvings and wooden doors show off its baroque touches even though they lack grace and charm. The courtyard is refined with several granite sculptures of lions. The inside of the church gives a form of Latin cross with 14 sided chapels. The ceiling of this beautiful building is painted by Italian artists Cesare Alberoni and Giovanni Dibella. Also the seats in the choir loft are hand carved on tropical hardwood. The baroque pulpit and the 18th century pipe organ bring upon great interest to the church as these are some of the key attractions here. The church holds the tombs of Manila’s founder and first governor general Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and remains of another Spanish conquistador, painter Juan Luna, statesman Pedro A. Peterno and Trinidad Pardo de Tavera.
This ancient church hosts an image of Nuestra Senora de Consolacion y Correa, Our lady of consolation which was crowned by Manila Archbishop in the year 2000. After the church was repaired after the war it became the site of the first Philippines Plenary Council in 1953. Although the monastery was burnt down during war time it has now been refurbished as a museum. The monastery houses a very ancient and impressive collection of paintings, statues and church property which dates back to the Spanish period. For those who are looking for a luxurious stay at one of the Manila Five Star Hotel, one place where you can be sure to be pampered on your holiday is at The Peninsula Manila, which is one of the best Manila Hotels.