MonteMaria Shrine: A Guide to Visiting the Popular Pilgrimage Site in Batangas City
MonteMaria Shrine is a religious and pilgrimage site located in Batangas City, Philippines. It is home to the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world. The shrine is a popular destination for devotees and pilgrims from all over the world to pay their respects and offer prayers.
Aside from being a religious site, MonteMaria Shrine is a tourism and retirement village. It offers a serene and peaceful environment, perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of Batangas Bay and the surrounding areas from the observation deck, which is located at the top of the tower. The shrine also features various landmarks, including the 98.15 meters high Statue of Mary, the Mother of All Asia, dedicated to peace and unity of the peoples and countries of this part of the world.
Overview of MonteMaria Shrine
MonteMaria Shrine, or Montemaria International Pilgrimage & Conference Center, is a township and Roman Catholic pilgrimage site in Batangas City, Philippines. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists, offering a stunning view of Batangas Bay and the surrounding areas, including Tingloy, Verde Island, and parts of Oriental Mindoro.
The highlight of the shrine is the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world, standing at 98.15 meters high. The monument shrine is dedicated to the Virgin Mary as a symbol of unity and peace in Asia and the world. It is located at the center of the eight-hectare pilgrimage site, Montemaria International Pilgrimage & Conference Center in Sitio Montemaria, Barangay Pagkilatan, Batangas City.
MonteMaria Shrine is a religious destination and a place for relaxation and reflection. The site features several landmarks, including the Holy Family Chapel, the Way of the Cross, the Rosary Garden, and the Meditation Garden. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic view of Batangas Bay from the observation deck.
The site is open to visitors all year round, and admission is free. However, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and observe proper decorum when visiting the shrine. MonteMaria Shrine is a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment, peace, and a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
History and Significance
The Montemaria International Pilgrimage & Conference Center, which houses the shrine, was founded by the Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation, a non-profit organization established by a Catholic priest. The foundation aims to promote unity, peace, and love among people of different faiths and cultures. The shrine is a symbol of this mission and serves as a reminder to all who visit that peace and unity are possible, even in a world of strife and division.
The shrine has gained recognition not only in the Philippines but also in other parts of the world. It has been visited by many dignitaries, including the Archbishop of Lipa and Batangas Governor Dodo Mandanas. The Archdiocese of Lipa has also recognized the shrine as a place of pilgrimage, and many Catholics come here to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The statue of the Virgin Mary was built with the help of many volunteers and donors, and it is a testament to the devotion and faith of the people of Batangas. The shrine has become an important landmark in Calabarzon and has helped promote Batangas City as a pilgrimage destination. The Montemaria Shrine is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring human spirit, and it will continue to inspire generations to come.
The Statue of the Mother of All Asia
The centerpiece of the Montemaria Shrine is the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, a gigantic statue of Mary, the mother of Jesus. With a height of 98.15 meters or 322 feet, it is the tallest statue of Mary in the world. It also ranks no. 9 among the world’s tallest statues. The statue is made of steel and concrete and has a bronze finish.
The statue’s hands and face are made of marble and were crafted in Italy. The statue depicts Mary standing on a globe, with her arms outstretched and her hands open in a gesture of peace and welcome. The statue is visible from afar and can be seen from many parts of Batangas City.
The Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary as a symbol of unity and peace in Asia and the world. It is a Marian statue that stands as a symbol of hope and faith for the people of Batangas and beyond. The statue is a popular pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists.
The statue’s construction began in 2010 and was completed in 2015. It was designed by a Filipino architect named Jose Ma. Zaragoza. The statue was built atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a steep staircase.
Interesting Facts about Montemaria Shrine
- It is the World’s tallest statue of Mary, with a height of 98.15 meters or 322 feet measured from the ground up to the tip of the cross on top of her crown.
- It ranks no. 9 among the world’s tallest statues.
- Its height is equivalent to a 33-storey building representing our lord Jesus’ life year on earth.
- It is also the only livable statue in the world with a gross floor area of 12,000 square meters or 1.2 hectares, more or less.
- The crown has 12 stars that represent the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ.
- The construction of the hands and face of Mary was commissioned to renowned sculptor and national artist the late ED CASTRILLO, who started working on the project in 2008.
- Construction of the Tower of Peace began in 2013 and was completed in 2021, just in time to celebrate the 500th year of Christianization and globalization of the Philippines.
- There were 4 other designs, and another location was studied and considered before the 5th and final design was approved and constructed in its present location.
- The monument has 12 foundations that represent the 12 tribes of Israel.
- A person has to climb 420 steps from the ground level to reach the crown, but that is if the person opts not to use any of the 3 elevators inside the monument.
- The name “MOTHER OF ALL ASIA” was adapted from POPE BENEDICT XVI’S 27 May 2017 prayer To Our Lady of Sheshan, Mother of The Church in China and All Asia.
Comparisons to Other Popular Monuments
In terms of size, MonteMaria Shrine is significantly taller than Christ the Redeemer and the Statue of Liberty. However, size is not the only factor determining a monument’s significance. Each monument uniquely impacts the people who visit them and the cultures they represent.
Montemaria Shrine Regular Mass Schedule
- 1st Fridays: 4:00PM
- Every 8th Day of the Month: 9:00AM
- Saturdays: 8:00AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 12:15PM and 3:30PM
- Sundays: 7:00AM, 8:00AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 12:15PM, and 3:30PM
Facilities and Attractions
Montemaria Shrine provides many facilities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From chapels to restaurants, there is something for everyone.
One of the main attractions at Montemaria Shrine is the Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world. Visitors can climb to the observation deck for a breathtaking view of Batangas Bay and the surrounding areas, including Tingloy and Verde Island.
The Santo Niño Chapel is another popular attraction, featuring a beautiful altar and stained glass windows. It is a peaceful and serene place to pray and reflect.
For those seeking a retreat, Montemaria Shrine offers retreat facilities for individuals and groups. The facilities include air-conditioned rooms, a conference room, and a dining hall.
The Cenacle Restaurant & Event Center is a great place to enjoy meals with family and friends. The restaurant serves various Filipino and international dishes and can accommodate large groups for events and celebrations.
The Event Center is a versatile space that can be used for conferences, seminars, and other events. It features state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and can accommodate up to 1,500 guests.
The souvenir shop offers a variety of religious items and souvenirs for visitors to take home as a reminder of their pilgrimage to Montemaria Shrine.
The Auditorium is another venue for events and performances, with a seating capacity of up to 1,000 guests.
The Reception Hall is a spacious and elegant venue for weddings, debuts, and other celebrations. It features a grand staircase, a stage, and a bridal room.
The View Deck is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the scenery. It offers a panoramic view of Batangas Bay and the surrounding areas.
The Gate of the Archangels is a striking entrance to Montemaria Shrine, featuring statues of the archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
The Way of the Cross is a series of life-size statues depicting the Passion of Christ. It is a solemn and moving experience for pilgrims.
Visiting the Shrine
The shrine is accessible by car or public transport. Visitors from Manila can take a Buendia Bus Terminal or DLTB Bus Terminal to Batangas Grand Terminal. From there, they can take a jeepney or tricycle to the shrine. The trip can take around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.
Is there an entrance fee?
There is absolutely no entrance fee. You may visit the shrine for free!
The shrine is peaceful and serene, with beautiful gardens and a chapel accommodating up to 500 people. Visitors can also climb to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.
Nearby Amenities and Attractions
MonteMaria Shrine is located in Batangas City which offers a variety of amenities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some nearby places to check out:
SM Batangas
For those looking for some shopping or entertainment options, SM Batangas is a popular mall located just 20 minutes away from MonteMaria Shrine. This mall features a variety of stores, restaurants, and a cinema.
Ilijan
Ilijan is a nearby town that is known for its natural beauty and scenic views. Visitors can take a bus or car to Ilijan and enjoy the lush greenery and stunning landscapes.
Restaurants
There are several restaurants located near MonteMaria Shrine that offer a variety of cuisines. From local Filipino dishes to international cuisine, visitors can find something to suit their taste buds.
Grand Terminal
The Batangas Grand Terminal is located just 30 minutes away from MonteMaria Shrine and offers transportation options to other destinations in the Philippines. Visitors can take a bus from the terminal to nearby towns or cities.
Beaches
Batangas is known for its beautiful beaches, and visitors to MonteMaria Shrine can take a short drive to nearby beaches such as Punta Santa Cruz. These beaches offer a variety of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Batangas Bay
Batangas Bay is a picturesque bay just a few minutes from MonteMaria Shrine. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the bay and enjoy a relaxing day by the water.
Accommodation
Several accommodation options are available for those looking to stay overnight near MonteMaria Shrine. From budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, visitors can find a place to stay that suits their needs and budget.
Events and Ceremonies
MonteMaria Shrine is a religious site and a popular venue for various events and ceremonies. The stunning architecture and serene atmosphere make it an ideal location for weddings, retreats, and other gatherings.
Those interested in holding a wedding ceremony at MonteMaria Shrine offer different packages, including access to the church, altar decorations, sound system, and other amenities. The Shrine also has a reception hall accommodating up to 300 guests.
In addition to weddings, MonteMaria Shrine holds regular mass schedules for those wanting to attend a religious service. The Shrine offers multiple mass schedules every Saturday and Sunday and special mass schedules on the first Friday of the month and the eighth day of the month. Visitors can check the official website for the latest mass schedules.
For those looking for a spiritual retreat, MonteMaria Shrine offers a peaceful and tranquil environment perfect for introspection and reflection. The Shrine has a retreat house that can accommodate up to 50 people and is equipped with comfortable rooms, a chapel, and a dining area.
Online Presence
MonteMaria Shrine has a strong online presence, making it easy for devotees and pilgrims to stay connected and updated with the latest news and events.
The official website of MonteMaria Shrine is montemaria.com.ph. The website provides information about the shrine, including its history, facilities, and services. Visitors can also access the latest news and events and information about membership and donations. The website is well-designed, user-friendly, and easy to navigate.
MonteMaria Shrine also has an active Facebook page, which can be accessed at facebook.com/montemariashrine. The page has over 200,000 followers and provides regular updates about the shrine’s activities, events, and services. Devotees and pilgrims can also use the page to connect with other followers and share their experiences.
In addition to Facebook, MonteMaria Shrine has an Instagram account, which can be accessed at instagram.com/montemariashrine. The account has over 10,000 followers and provides a visual glimpse into the shrine’s beauty and serenity. Visitors can see photos of the shrine’s facilities, its natural surroundings, and breathtaking views.
Future Developments
MonteMaria Shrine is a developing township and pilgrimage site attracting visitors from around the world. With the success of the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the shrine has plans for further development to enhance the visitor’s experience.
Abacore Capital Holdings, Inc. and MonteMaria Asia Pilgrims, Inc. have partnered with Fluvion Real Estate Development, Inc. to create a joint-venture company that will oversee the construction of new facilities at the shrine. The project will include the construction of a new church, a retreat center, and a meditation garden.
The new church will have a larger floor area to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. It will also have modern facilities to cater to the needs of the pilgrims. The retreat center will provide a peaceful and serene environment for those who want to deepen their faith and spirituality.
MonteMaria Shrine is also planning to develop a residential subdivision for retirees who want to live in a peaceful and religious community. The subdivision will have a low to medium-density residential development, offering lots ranging from 240 to 320 sqm.
The future developments at MonteMaria Shrine are expected to attract more visitors and provide a better experience for pilgrims. The shrine’s proximity to oil refineries and power plants has made it an ideal location for religious tourism. With the new developments, MonteMaria Shrine is poised to become a major pilgrimage site in the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Monte Maria Shrine Batangas?
In 2006, Father Fernando Suarez, a Roman Catholic priest, envisioned creating a pilgrimage site after meeting local politician Hermilando Mandanas. Mandanas’ company, Abacore Capital Holdings, Inc., generously donated five hectares of land in Barangay Pagkilatan, and the project, which was to be called Montemaria, was set in motion. The project was well underway by 2009 when the Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation raised P200 million to fund the venture. However, in 2010, Father Suarez was offered a bigger site in Cavite by San Miguel Corporation (SMC), and the project was put on hold. Despite the challenges of fulfilling the conditions of the donation agreement with SMC, the pilgrimage site in Cavite was operational until 2014. Hermilando Mandanas was determined to keep the Montemaria project alive and set up the Montemaria Asia Pilgrims Inc. (MAPI) to manage the development. The Montemaria property was to be donated to MAPI, but plans were canceled, and the land was instead donated to the Archdiocese of Lipa.
How to go to Monte Maria Shrine
To get to Monte Maria Shrine, visitors can take a bus or drive to Batangas City. From there, they can take a tricycle or a jeepney to Barangay Pagkilatan, where the shrine is located. The shrine is approximately 45 minutes away from Batangas City proper.
Is Monte Maria open tomorrow?
Monte Maria Shrine is open to visitors every day, including tomorrow. However, visitors are advised to check the shrine’s official website or social media pages for any updates or changes in the schedule.
Monte Maria opening hours
The opening hours of Monte Maria Shrine are from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Visitors are advised to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat of the sun.
What is Montemaria known for?
Montemaria is known for its Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world. The shrine is also known for its beautiful view of Batangas Bay and for being a peaceful and serene place for prayer and reflection.
How many steps are there in Montemaria?
There are 300 steps leading to the top of the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace. Visitors who climb the steps will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Batangas Bay and the surrounding areas.
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