First concept and illustration by Arnel Suarez (my brother)
The Minor Basilica of St. Michael The Archangel in Tayabas, Quezon is known as the longest (103 meters) Spanish Colonial church in the country, the 2nd biggest in the Philippines, and one of the oldest religious structures. The Franciscan Missionaries had the first church built in 1585; indigenous materials like bamboo, anahaw and nipa were used. It was rebuilt in 1590 by Pedro Bautista (Trivia: This man became a Saint), and again rebuilt in 1600 using bricks. Ravaged by an earthquake in 1743, the church was repaired and enlarged in 1856 to include a transept and cupola. An 18th century clock that chimed every 30 minutes was installed on the side of the belfry, said to be the only one of its kind in the Philippines. This clock and the antique pipe organ on the choral loft have become favorite conversation pieces of tourists.
The Church of St. Michael The Archangel is a Diocesan Shrine and Pilgrim Church, and was declared by the National Historical Institute as a National Historical Landmark in 1978. Then, it was conferred the distinction of being a Minor Basilica on October 18,1988.
The church has earned the reputation of being one of the most beautiful churches in the country.
No comments:
Post a Comment