Showing 1-7 of 7 results
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Casa Manila
Another of Imelda Marcos' projects, Casa Manila is a (mostly) faithfully restored Spanish colonial home (the ceilings were made much higher for Imelda who is a well-above-average 178cm) that offers a window into the opulent lifestyle of the gentry in the 19th century. The three-storey house is furnished with antiques from the period.
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Chinese Cemetery
As in life, so it is in death for Manila's wealthy Chinese citizens, who are buried with every modern convenience in the huge Chinese Cemetery . There are mausoleums with crystal chandeliers, air-con, hot and cold running water, kitchens and flushing toilets (in case the interred are caught short on the way to paradise).
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Fort Santiago
Guarding the vital entrance to the Pasig River, Fort Santiago was once the seat of Spanish military power. Designated a Shrine of Freedom in 1950, today it is a memorial to Dr José Rizal, who was imprisoned here in the final days before his execution in 1896 for inciting revolution against the Spanish colonials. It is also a memorial to all Filipinos who have fought or died for the cause of freedom.
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Intramuros
When Miguel Lopez de Legazpi wrested control of Manila, he chose to erect his fortress on the remnants of the Islamic settlement by the mouth of the Pasig River. Intramuros, as Legazpi's walled city came to be called, was invaded by Chinese pirates, threatened by Dutch forces, and held by the British, Americans and Japanese at various times, yet it survived until the closing days of WWII, when it was finally destroyed by US bombing during the Battle of Manila.
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Malacañang Palace
The official residence of the President of the Philippines, Malacañang Palace was originally a Spanish grandee's summer house. It used to be possible to go on tours of the palace but these are no longer offered. Likewise, the Museo ng Malacañang, which displayed memorabilia related to the Philippines' past 13 presidents, along with old photos of Manila, is now closed. Unlike some other recent presidents, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo actually lives and works in the palace.
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Museo Ng Makati
Down by the river, the Museo Ng Makati is a classic old Manila house from the 1800s (look for the mother-of-pearl windows), with rotating exhibitions relating to local history. It's not open between exhibitions, so check.
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The Coconut Palace
Of all of Imelda's wacky schemes, this one may be the wackiest. Hearing that Pope John Paul II was planning a visit to the flock in the Philippines, Imelda ordered that a grand palace be built. And not just any palace either, but one showcasing the nation's crafts and materials. Huge teams of craftsmen laboured overtime to complete this edifice in time for the pontiff's arrival.
Showing 1-7 of 7 results
