Paoay Church (San Agustin Church)
Simbahan ti Paoay
A World Heritage masterpiece of 'Earthquake Baroque' in northern Ilocos, its coral stone and brick facade supported by 24 huge buttresses, resembling an Eastern temple.
San Agustin Church in Paoay was begun in 1694 and completed in 1710. In 1993 it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the 'Baroque Churches of the Philippines'. Its most striking features are the 24 huge spiral buttresses, built to withstand earthquakes. The facade blends Gothic, Baroque and Eastern elements, and has been likened to Borobudur in Java. Beside the church stands a free-standing three-storey coral-stone bell tower, which once served as a lookout. Entry is free, and the lawn in front of the church is a popular photo spot. It is about 60 km from Vigan, roughly a 1.5-hour drive, and can be combined with the Paoay Sand Dunes on the same day.
Opening hours
About 06:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Paoay Sand Dunes
- Bantay Church & Bell Tower
- Archbishop's Palace (Museo Nueva Segovia)
- Plaza Salcedo & Dancing Fountain
- Vigan Cathedral (St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral)
- Padre Burgos House (National Museum Ilocos)
- Plaza Burgos Empanada Stalls
- Calle Crisologo