Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila
Fort Santiago, an artifact of stone and memory, poses as both sentinel and sage. Its ramparts hold not only history’s remnants but also reflect the human journey. Each weathered stone seems to whisper a universal truth: that our pursuits, like its walls, stand against the relentless current of time. Within its confines, past and present coalesce, and we are reminded that the fort is not only a fortress of defense but a repository of wisdom. It urges us to contemplate the dual nature of preservation and impermanence, prompting introspection on how our lives intersect with the tides of existence.
In this article, you’ll be introduced to an immersive journey connecting the past and present, enriching you with insights and memories to cherish.
About Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago, established in 1571, stands as an enduring fortress crafted by Spanish navigator Miguel López de Legazpi for Manila’s protection. Nestled within Intramuros, Manila’s walled city, this citadel bears profound historical significance. It served as a somber prison, witnessing lives lost during the Spanish Empire and World War II. José Rizal, a revered Philippine hero, endured captivity here before his 1896 execution. The Rizal Shrine Museum echoes his legacy through a curated collection. Marking his final steps in bronze, the fort immortalizes his walk to the execution site. Adjacent to the Manila Cathedral and Palacio del Gobernador, Fort Santiago beckons with tales of courage and sacrifice.
History
Fort Santiago, established by the Spaniards in 1571, stands as one of Manila’s oldest defenses. Originally a palisaded structure built by Rajah Soliman on the native settlement of Maynila, it was strategically positioned at the juncture of the Pasig River and Manila Bay. The fort suffered destruction in 1574 during a Chinese assault led by Limahong. Between 1589 and 1592, a stone fort was constructed, later repaired and expanded after the 1645 earthquake.
Over time, the fort served as headquarters and prison for various occupying forces, including the Spanish, British, Americans, and Japanese. The Battle of Manila in 1945 caused severe damage, after which the fort was used as a depot by the U.S. Transportation Corps until it was returned to Philippine control in 1946.
In 1950, it gained the designation of Shrine of Freedom, paving the way for restoration efforts that commenced the following year. Today, Fort Santiago is a poignant memorial to World War II’s victims and the Filipino people’s unwavering pursuit of freedom.
Things to Do Inside Fort Santiago
Inside Fort Santiago’s venerable walls lies a spectrum of engaging activities. From exploring historical corridors to learning about national figures, you’ll absorb the essence of Philippine history. Walk through the architectural relics, hear the echoes of the past, and appreciate the serene surroundings. Fort Santiago is a hub for reflection, learning, and immersion in Manila’s heritage. Here are five activities to explore within its walls.
Statuary Park: Plaza Moriones
Discover a hidden gem within Fort Santiago: Statuary Park, also known as Plaza Moriones. As you step through the ticket counter, you’ll find yourself in a spacious garden square brimming with history. Once a vibrant public square, it was enclosed by the Spanish Guardia Civil in 1864 after an earthquake. Named after the 87th Spanish Governor General, Domingo Moriones y Murillo, this place holds tales of his formidable leadership during the Carlist Wars in Spain. With a past rooted in strength and resilience, Plaza Moriones now invites you to explore its intriguing facets.
Wander along the western wall, formerly a military supply storage known as Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier, where today’s Intramuros Visitor’s Center, art gallery, souvenir shop, and café await. Amidst the lush openness of the garden, life-size statuary depicting monks, soldiers, and historical figures stand as silent witnesses to the rich stories this plaza holds.
Appreciate the Gate of Fort Santiago
Step into a world of storied valor as you approach the gate that guards the heart of Fort Santiago. The very gate that withstood the tempestuous tides of history, surviving the fierce Battle of Manila in 1945, stands before you. Behold its magnificent adornments: a wood relief carving depicting Santiago Matamoros, the legendary “Moor-slayer,” Spain’s revered patron saint, and alongside, the regal insignia of the Kingdom of Castile and Leon, tracing lineage through time.
Traces of antiquity linger in the embossed figures of Spanish soldiers, their visages weathered by ages. Gaze upon St. James, emblem of Spanish dominion, gracing far-flung lands like Chile and Mexico, bearing witness to an enduring legacy.
See Plaza de Armas
Nestled within Fort Santiago, the Plaza de Armas takes center stage. This name is a familiar hallmark in Spanish colonies, denoting a place to store arms and rifles when idle. Here, soldiers once conducted their drills, shaping its role as a training hub. Amid Intramuros, Manila, it remains the beating heart of Fort Santiago. Paired with Plaza de Roma and Plaza Moriones, it forms a trio of significant sites, their stories intertwined. Often mistaken, these plazas contribute to the intricate historical fabric of Manila.
Learn More About Jose Rizal at Rizal Shrine
The Rizal Shrine, also known as the Museo ni José Rizal Fort Santiago, is a museum honoring the legacy of José Rizal. Found within Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila, it stands adjacent to the Plaza de Armas. Originally a barracks for Spanish artillery soldiers during colonization, it now houses the museum. This building held significance as the place where Rizal spent his final night and concealed his renowned poem Mi último adiós within an oil lamp, later passed to his sister. An array of memorabilia, including shells from Dapitan, books, manuscripts, and artworks, are showcased within its walls. In 2014, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines renovated the museum to engage a younger audience.
See the Bateria de Santa Barbara
Constructed in 1593, Baluarte de Santa Barbara stands as a stone bastion integral to the Santiago Fort in Manila. A witness to World War II’s echoes, it bears the weight of history’s harsh treatment towards its wartime detainees. Originally an ammunition and arms repository, it later transformed into a prison, where stories of fatalities during floods and high tides linger. An important landmark, this bastion invites you to glimpse into Manila’s past as you traverse its grounds.
How to Get There
The most efficient route to Fort Santiago is through guided Old Manila tours or by public transport. If you opt for public transportation, the LRT is a convenient choice. Disembark at Central Station and take a brief stroll to the Fort Entrance. Alternatively, alight at Carriedo Station and catch a jeepney bound for Mabini, which will take you to your destination.
Entrance Fees
The entrance fees for Fort Santiago were as follows:
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- Adults: PHP 75
- Students (with valid ID): PHP 50
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