Manila Cathedral
Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
The principal Catholic cathedral of the Philippines, in the heart of Intramuros. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, and today's Neo-Romanesque building dates from 1958.
Manila Cathedral was first built in 1581. It was destroyed and rebuilt eight times by fires, earthquakes and the bombardment of World War II. The present Neo-Romanesque building was completed in 1958 and serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Manila. Its façade features stone statues of several saints, and the interior has fine stained-glass windows and an organ with 4,500 pipes. Every pope who has visited the Philippines has presided over Mass here. Admission is free. Dress modestly, and keep quiet during Mass. It stands on Plaza de Roma in Intramuros, a 5 to 10-minute walk from Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.
Opening hours
Daily approx. 07:00–17:00 (visits restricted during Mass)
Nearby sights
- Intramuros
- Casa Manila
- San Agustin Church
- Fort Santiago
- Manila Metropolitan Theater
- Binondo Church
- National Museum of Fine Arts
- National Museum of Anthropology