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San Agustin Church: The Oldest Stone Church in the Philippines
- Jenn & Leon
- Sep 1, 2023
- 11 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
The San Agustin Church is a Baroque church located in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines.
It is 416 years old and one of the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is the only church that survived the near-complete destruction of Intramuros in World War 2.
In this blog post, we will take you on a virtual tour of this beautiful church, give you the lowdown on its fascinating history of endurance, share some facts, and give you all the information you need to know before you go.
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Our San Agustin Church Highlights
We had the true pleasure of visiting this beautiful Roman Catholic church as part of our tour of Intramuros.
Having traveled much of Eastern Europe and South Asia in our past year, predominantly Islamic countries, this was the first church we have been to in some time.
And what an amazing church it is.
Before visiting, we already knew of its moniker as being the oldest church in the Philippines, but the more we looked into it, the more amazing its history became.
Not just the oldest, it also holds a strength that goes far beyond age; it has emerged as the only structure to survive the total destruction of Intramuros on no less than two occasions.
The first was through a devastating earthquake, and the second was the terror of war that led to Manila becoming the second most destroyed city of World War Two.
Both times, this was the only building left standing.
As if that was not enough to give us pause for thought, the intricate and ornate design of the church is striking.
Elaborate carvings, paintings, and sculptures adorn the church's walls and ceilings, rightfully earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.
The church also features a grand pipe organ and impressive religious artifacts that captivated us in every way.
It was so peaceful here, and it is a special place that holds so much importance to the Philippines, as it does to us, for being able to share our energy with it.
Regardless of religious beliefs, buildings and sites like this have been hubs of human activity for centuries for a reason.
We felt that here for sure, and it definitely left an impression on us.
There is also a museum here, which we did not have time to visit, that displays a large collection of Spanish-era artifacts, paintings, church ornaments, and statues.
When we return to Intramuros, we may well check this out!
Half a Century of History at San Agustin Church
San Agustin Church is the oldest and one of the most historically significant churches in the country.
Its history is closely tied to the Spanish colonial period and the spread of Christianity in the Philippines.
The current structure is the third to have been built on the site.
Officially known as the "Church of Saint Augustine," it was founded in 1571, making it one of the earliest churches built in the Philippines after the arrival of Spanish colonizers led by Miguel López de Legazpi.
Originally made from wood and nipa, it was destroyed twice by fires.
A decision was made to build it from stone, and that began in 1586, although it took over 18 years to complete due to a lack of funds, materials, and stonemasons.
The church's design is a fine example of the Baroque architectural style and was designed by Juan Macias, who sadly passed away before its completion in 1607.
It was actually named the Church of St Paul of Manila.
It also had two bell towers, although the left tower was eventually removed due to significant earthquake damage in 1880.
Over the centuries, San Agustin Church faced challenges, including earthquakes and fires.
Notably, a massive earthquake in 1645 heavily damaged the church.
However, it was rebuilt and further expanded. Eight earthquakes, three wars, and several fires have been thrown at it, yet it never yielded to these forces.
Famously, in 1863, a major earthquake destroyed most of Manila, yet this church was the only building left undamaged.
It served as a hospital at that time, and in 1898, it was the site where Spanish Governor-General Fermin Jaudenes prepared the terms for the surrender of Manila to the United States of America.
More recently, during the Second World War, San Agustin Church was used as a concentration camp during the Japanese occupation, and also as a gun post.
In the final days of the Battle of Manila, many residents and clergymen of the church were killed there.
Remarkably, like the earthquake of 1863, it was the only one among the seven churches of Intramuros to survive the complete leveling of the city by the American and Filipino forces in 1945.
San Agustin Church has played a significant role in Filipino history, serving as the backdrop for important events such as royal and religious ceremonies.
The church contains the tombs of several influential people, like Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Juan de Salcedo, and houses the image of the Lady of Consolation, which was crowned by Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jaime Sin in 2000.
Due to its historical and cultural importance, San Agustin Church was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 as part of the "Baroque Churches of the Philippines."
This designation acknowledges the church's role in the cultural heritage of the Philippines and its architectural significance.
The history of San Agustin Church reflects the intertwined narratives of religion, culture, architecture, and colonialism in the Philippines.
It stands as a symbol of resilience and continuity, showcasing the enduring impact of the past on the present.
Ten Interesting Facts About San Agustin Church
1. It is the oldest stone church in the Philippines.
2. It was built by the Augustinian friars in 1586 and completed in 1607.
3. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. The church was built in the Spanish-Mexican baroque style and has a 14-sided dome, which is the oldest in the Philippines.
5. The church has a pipe organ that was installed in 1811.
6. The church has a museum that houses religious artifacts and artworks.
7. The church was damaged during the Battle of Manila in 1945, but it was restored in the 1950s.
8. The church is dedicated to Saint Augustine of Hippo, a 4th-century theologian and philosopher.
9. The church's bell tower is 60 meters tall.
10. The church receives an average of 1 million visitors per year. This number can go up to 2 million during peak seasons, such as Holy Week and Christmas.
What Is Intramuros?
Intramuros, which translates to "within the walls" in Spanish, is a historic area located in the center of Manila, Philippines. It was established in 1571 by the Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi.
Constructed as a defensive stronghold, Intramuros was encircled by large stone walls and moats designed to shield Spanish settlers from attacks by local indigenous groups and other foreign forces.
The walls of Intramuros stood as a physical barrier between the Spanish elite and the outside world.
Intramuros emerged as the political, religious, and economic nucleus of Manila during the Spanish colonial era.
The district's architecture showcases a blend of Spanish colonial and Asian influences, featuring elegant facades, intricate carvings, and cobblestone streets.
The district was laid out in a grid pattern, typical of Spanish colonial town planning, with the central plaza, Plaza Mayor (now known as Plaza de Roma), serving as the focal point.
Key structures like the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church underline its role as a religious and cultural hub.
Intramuros endured the seven-year war between Spain and Britain in 1762 but suffered significant destruction during World War II.
The area faced extensive bombing by American forces after Japan invaded and occupied the city.
Much of the original architecture and structures were either destroyed or damaged during this time, not only due to the bombings but also as a result of the 'scorched earth' tactics employed by the retreating Japanese army.
Intramuros was nearly entirely devastated, and as a result, Manila became the second most destroyed city in World War II, following Warsaw, Poland.
Following the end of the war and the declaration of Philippine independence from the U.S. in 1946, efforts have been undertaken to preserve and restore the historical heritage of Intramuros.
Although much of the original city has been lost, Intramuros remains a treasured site, drawing tourists eager to explore the Philippines' colonial history.
It provides a unique window into the nation's past through its museums, cultural sites, and landmarks.
As a living testament to the Philippines' history, Intramuros represents the country's resilience and offers a tangible link to its struggle for freedom from foreign domination.
San Agustin Church Opening Times
The San Agustin Church is open to the public for both religious services and sightseeing.
Visitors can explore its interior, learn about its history, and appreciate its artistic and architectural elements.
The San Agustin Church is open to the public from 8 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday. There are no entrance fees, but donations are welcome.
⪢ San Agustin Church Manila Mass Schedule
● Monday to Friday: 6:30 am, 7:00 am, 5:30 pm
● Saturday: 7:00 am, 5:30 pm (anticipated mass)
● Sunday: 8:00 am (children’s mass), 10:00 am, 6:00 pm
How to Get to San Agustin Church
To get to San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines, you have a few transportation options depending on your starting point.
Here's how to get there using different modes of transportation:
By Public Transportation (Jeepney, LRT, and Walking)
● If you're in a different part of Metro Manila, you can take the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 and get off at Central Terminal Station.
● From the station, you can take a jeepney with a route that goes to Intramuros or San Agustin Church. You can ask locals or the jeepney driver for assistance.
● If you're comfortable with walking, you can explore Intramuros on foot from the entrance gate near Central Terminal Station.
San Agustin Church is one of the prominent landmarks inside Intramuros and is easily accessible on foot.
By Taxi or Grab
Taxis, or Grab, are readily available in Metro Manila. You can simply input "San Agustin Church, Intramuros" as your destination in the app, and the driver should take you directly to the church.
Remember that traffic conditions in Manila can vary, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and consider the time of day when traveling to avoid any potential delays.
By Walking
If you're in the general vicinity of Intramuros or if you're exploring the area, you can consider walking to San Agustin Church.
Intramuros is a historic walled area, and you can find signs and directions leading to San Agustin Church.
⪢ By Guided Tour
Many tour operators offer guided tours of Intramuros, which often include a visit to San Agustin Church.
Joining a guided tour can be a convenient way to learn about the history of the area and the church while ensuring you won't get lost.
⪢ Contact Information for San Augustin Church
● Address: General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
● Contact: +63 (02) 8527 2746
Where to Stay in Manila
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Manila hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Other Places to Visit Nearby
There are many places to check out in Intramuros, but here are a few within walking distance from San Agustin Church that we recommend you check out:
Manila Cathedral
Manila Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, is a historic minor basilica and an important place of worship.
It has been rebuilt seven times, overcoming several wars and earthquakes.
Casa Manila
Casa Manila is a museum that was built in 1980, showcasing the lifestyle of a wealthy Filipino family during the Spanish colonial period.
It is a fascinating tour back in time here, with original features and furnishings.
Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago was built by the Spanish in 1571 and served as the HQ of the colonial government.
Also used as a prison, it's where José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, was held before his execution in 1896.
Barbara’s Restaurant
Step back in time at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in Manila’s famous walled city of Intramuros.
A must-visit for great food, music, and culture. A wonderful way to immerse yourself in the incredible history and tradition of the Philippines.
Watch Us Explore Intramuros on YouTube
This video takes you on a journey through both luxury and local attractions as we wander around the city of Intramuros.
Regardless of the weather, we made the most of our day!
We visit popular tourist destinations like the Plaza San Luis Complex, home to Barbara's Heritage Restaurant, The Royal Cafe, and the Casa Manila Living Museum.
Next, we explore San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, and Fort Santiago, all while soaking in the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of Manila that we've grown to cherish.
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world!
Our Experience Rating:
San Agustin Church
The San Agustin Church remains an active place of worship and is rightfully a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.
It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Christianity in the Philippines and the colonial history that shaped the nation.
Its story of survival, in the face of so much adversity, was enough alone to give us goosebumps as we walked inside.
Coupled with its wonderful architectural beauty, this church left a profound impression on us that we will never forget.
FAQ: Visiting San Agustin Church in Manila
Why is San Agustin Church so famous?
San Agustin Church is the oldest stone church in the Philippines, completed in 1607.
It has withstood wars, earthquakes, and centuries of change, and remains a symbol of the Spanish colonial era in Manila.
Where is it located?
Is it a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Can tourists enter the church?
What makes the church architecturally unique?
What are the opening hours?
Are weddings and events held here?
How long should I plan for a visit?
Is there a dress code?
What’s nearby that I should also visit?
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An incredible church for its design and energy. Then you look at the history, and how it survived some of the worst acts of man, still standing throughout horrific conflicts that laid waste to all around it. This is a special place. Put your body there. Trust me... you will feel it.