After three years after the onset of COVID-19, the Manila Cathedral is going to open its door on Independence Day, June 12, to offer free guided tours to the public that will start from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The program includes Holy Mass from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a guided tour where you can freely access the crypt, choir loft, roof deck, and more from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and a pipe organ mini-concert will be at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
This initiative is in partnership with Intramuros Administration to celebrate Freedom at the Walled City and promote appreciation of the Cathedral’s rich history and contributions to our culture.
History time! Why is Manila Cathedral Famous?
Did you know that The Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, also known as the Manila Cathedral, survived the Battle of Manila despite merciless bombing?
This historical event in the capital of the Philippines happened from February 3 to March 3, 1945, between Philippine and United States forces against the Imperial Armed Japanese troops. This tragedy took place during the Second World War, and thousands of unknown men, women, and children died.
Currently, Memorare Manila 1945 is a memorial to the Filipinos who lost their lives due to the heinous crimes the Japanese Armed Forces committed. It also commemorates the locations of the massacre, which can be found in Intramuros.
The Manila Cathedral is known as a sacred place where papal masses happen. Blessed Paul VI, St John Paul II, and Pope Francis visited the Cathedral and conducted their holy masses.
Back then, the Manila Cathedral was made only with nipa and bamboo by Juan de Vivero, a secular priest dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. Its present structure has 8 chapels where people can celebrate weddings, buy religious souvenirs, and participate in other Catholic events.
