Three words to describe this church: massive, elegant, classic.

Its architecture is impeccable, it's a spacious, quiet and relaxing place to pray and ponder, and there's a lot to see inside and out. Its humble beginnings when it was consecrated as a cathedral started ~500 years ago, and through history, it has been faced with a lot of events. Fires, earthquakes, war bombings and other such disasters may have destroyed the cathedral repeatedly, but they never permanently stopped the church from being rebuilt over again; and in 1958, it rose from the ashes of a previous earthquake, and has stood its ground at Intramuros ever since. From a small nipa, wood and bamboo hut, to a now massive cement and adobe Neo-Romanesque fortress, the cathedral has evolved, and continues to stand as the 'Mother of all Churches' in the country, hosting many major church events and gatherings, like Pope Francis' visit to the country back in 2015. It's also the resting place of past archbishops and Philippine presidents.

The church is stunning and majestic. It's bigger and more beautiful in person, and is one of the largest churches in the country. The massive facade is lined with statues, and there are many ornate decorations. The bell tower is the tallest structure in Intramuros. Stepping inside, one will be greeted by graceful Neo-Romanesque architecture. I felt warmth, resplendent, and at peace, and I also felt inspiration and comfort from all the vibrant colourful windows; to the soft warm lighting; to the heavenly harmonious 5,000-pipe organ, and to the various statues and artworks inside the church. Its beauty, simplicity and elegance speaks a thousand words for the soul. It gives me a beautiful Spanish-esque era feel to it. Thanks to the 2013 modernisation of the basilica, the building is stronger and sturdier than ever; the marble floors have been polished; the walls have been cleaned; and the LED lighting gives an alluring ambience to the church. Large flat-screen TVs have been added for convenience, and A/C have been added for comfort and relaxation. A museum to the side of the church make a monumental testament and gives stories and detailed explanations of the country's past, of the history of the church, and of the Filipino Christian faith.

I highly recommend to visit this place. It's beautiful, it's clean and safe, and it's one of the most visited destinations to go to in Manila. It's very calm and serene both inside and outside. Interesting fact: it's also the most booked church in the country for weddings. When one thinks of NYC, one would think of the Statue of Liberty; however when one thinks of Manila, I hope that the Manila Cathedral pops into their minds. Despite the numerous disasters and obstacles it has faced for centuries, this timeless place continues to serve both as a place of worship and as an icon of the Philippines; and a symbol of perseverance, inspiration, and faith. It learns from the past, embraces the present, and looks towards the future. To summarize it poetically: its height signifies our soaring dreams towards Heaven; its length our endearing perseverance and hope; and its width our strong faith and wide family ties. The church has risen like a phoenix from the ashes, and will forevermore be a place and a community of love and of God. Its not merely a museum for the lavishly-rich, but ultimately it is also a hospital for the broken and the poor.

Overlooking the Plaza de Roma park, the Manila Cathedral will continue to stand a symbol of light. It is rightly called to be the Mother Church – “first our church, forever our Mother.” And like a Mother, we shall all take care of Her.

Have fun visiting the Manila Cathedral! 5/5 recommended