My early visita iglesia

The visita iglesia or church visit is a tradition in the Philippines usually done on Maundy Thursday. Together with 2 friends we decided to do the pilgrimage 2 weeks early, away from the maddening crowd of Holy Week. The churches down south of Cebu have retained much of what it was in the past. Coral stone blocks, painted ceilings and antique bells have pretty much survived the ravages of time. Learning interesting tidbits of these churches make your pilgrimage a memorable experience.

1. St. Michael the Archangel Church, Argao (the golden retablo is a must-see, the area surrounding the church is a typical Spanish Plaza, it's like walking back in time)

2. Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church, Talaga, Argao (this blue and towering structure couldn't be missed)

3. Sta. Monica Parish Church, Cawayan, Dalaguete (reminds me of the onion-shaped belfries of Carcar. Four female figures greet you on the stairs, I am not sure though what they represent. Perhaps the 4 virtues.)

4. San Guillermo de Aquitania Parish Church, Dalaguete (I just love the facade of these church, details are commonly found in Augustinian churches dotting the island)

5. Sta. Rosa de Lima Parish Church (hard to see from the highway, the tall trees around the church make the air so cool)

6. Patrocinio de Maria Parish Church, Boljoon (see the Archaeological diggings around the church grounds and chance upon burials with celadon wares, golden jewelry and other traditional implements)

7. Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragosa Church, Sibonga (no one will ever miss this imposing structure, the main door of the church reach as high as 3 floors)

These photos have been taken from 2007-2009.

CDO's impressive stained glass windows

Not much is known how these stained glass windows, made by master craftsmen of Birmingham, England, reached the shores of Cagayan de Oro city. One interesting fact though, these priceless works of art were taken from the chapel of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart in New York and were installed in 1946 after the present cathedral was rebuilt after the war.

St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral
Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines

University of San Carlos Exhibit

These photos were taken between 2008 & February 2009. Part of the History and SoAn Days 2009 carrying the theme Heritage Awareness for the Young Generation. Exhibit runs until the 14th of March 2009.

2 sets I submitted. The Colonial Churches of Cebu and published photos at the Heritage section of Cebu Daily News.