History
The Malate Church, built facing the beauty of Manila Bay is one of the oldest churches built outside the walled city of Intramuros. Its construction was supervised by the Augustinian friars in 1588 in honor of the Nuestra Señora de Remedios. Its original statue which was brought from Andalucia, Spain in 1624 still stands at the church’s altar.
In 1661, upon the orders of Governor-general Sabiniano Manrique de Lara, the church was destroyed because of the fear of the infamous pirate Li Ma Hong’s attack. It was later rebuilt from 1677 to 1679. In 1792, British forces in the country made the church their headquarters during their brief invasion in Manila. For the third time, the church was rebuilt in 1864 after being devastated by an earthquake in 1863.
Architectural Design
Malate Church is also known for having a fusion of Muslim and Baroque architecture. This unique characteristic is evident in the church’s façade. The church is also a favorite venue for weddings because of its conservative look and dark stone structure adding to its solemnity. Also, an addition to it is the church’s rooftop in a form of a cross.
How to get there
From Luneta, take a short walk southward along Roxas Boulevard. From Quirino LRT Station, take a brief walk towards San Andres.