San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish - Tanay, Rizal (Diocese of Antipolo) — Attraction in Luzon

Step into history at Tanay Church — Rizal’s 300-Year-Old Baroque Masterpiece!

On our recent Tanay Familiarization Tour, we uncovered the timeless beauty of San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish Church, famously known as Tanay Church. Built by Franciscan friars in the late 1700s, this stunning stone and wood structure is the best-preserved colonial church in Rizal province.

Finished in 1783, its grand Baroque façade features delicate arches, intricate angelic sculptures, and classic pilasters that tell tales of faith and Filipino artistry. Inside, five ornate altarpieces and a magnificent pulpit showcase the rich craftsmanship of Filipino artisans through the centuries.

Declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines in 2001, Tanay Church is more than just a historic site—it’s a living legacy of culture, devotion, and architectural brilliance.

Visiting here isn’t just sightseeing; it’s stepping back into centuries of Filipino heritage. History lovers, architecture buffs, and spiritual seekers — this church is a must-visit!

5 Fascinating Facts About Tanay Church: ✔️Built in 1783: The church has stood for over 300 years, surviving earthquakes and wars. ✔️Franciscan Roots: It was constructed by Franciscan friars using local stone and hardwood. ✔️Baroque Beauty: The façade is rich with Baroque details like angel sculptures, arches, and pilasters. ✔️National Cultural Treasure: Officially declared by the National Museum in 2001 for its historical and cultural significance. ✔️Five Altarpieces Inside: Each altar is intricately designed, showcasing exquisite local craftsmanship.

Have you ever been wowed by a centuries-old church? Tell us your story below!

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Amazing that this oldest of Tanay churches is still standing! But before entering the church, the huge sculpture of Mama Mary and San Ildefonso of Toledo greets parishioners as they enter the gate. The sculpture was made by several local craftsmen as a way to preserve the giant 100-year old acacia tree that was dying of disease. This sculpture is echoed by at least 14 other ones inside the church that represent the stations of the cross - one of the most beautiful depictions of major events in the Bible. These are encased in glass and should live a long long time for future generations to marvel at. The church looks its age although I think it has been remodeled or restored several times. It's in baroque style and has a beautiful retablo. Some of the stonework might still be original, or at least very very old. There are also wonderful sculptures of saints mounted on walls, as well as a richly adorned santo entierro. The side pulpit has a life-sized figure of a smiling Pope Francis looking over the entire church (probably made out of corrugated paper or very thin wood) - a nice reminder of the Pope's last visit to the Philippines. A large courtyard opens out at the side of the church, with the statue of Mama Mary dominating the square. Other wonderful details of the church must be experienced to be...

San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish Church – Tanay, Rizal (Diocese of Antipolo)

One of the best churches in both exterior and interior. Although the exteriors have undergone some reconstruction, the interior has remained beautifully intact throughout history. The sculpture in the altar is stunning—rich in detail and devotion. The Stations of the Cross along the walls are particularly eye-catching, with intricate carvings that feel alive with emotion and story.

You’ll also notice a number of religious paintings throughout the church, adding depth and color to the sacred atmosphere. When you go near the altar, look up and you’ll be greeted by the beautiful fresco-style ceiling art—especially the octagonal dome surrounded by painted medallions of saints and biblical figures.

A charming and unexpected touch? Look closely at those ceiling medallion paintings—yes, those are actual bats quietly hanging there! They’re not part of the artwork but real, tiny residents of the church. It’s an amusing and oddly heartwarming reminder that this is a living, breathing piece of history—still connected to nature and time, even as it preserves centuries of devotion.

Parking Insight: Easily accessible for both cars and motorcycles,...