Intramuros

We start at the gate of Fort Santiago for a short walk to its main gate. This centuries' old fortress was built under the orders of the Spanish conquistadores to repel the Chinese, Dutch, and local pirates from invasion. A plaza where soldiers used to have their morning drill is now a promenade for families and visitors. We then proceed to the national shrine of Dr. Jose Rizal that used to be his prison cell and see Binondo across the Pasig River.

We walk to the main square, Plaza de Roma and have a good view of former symbols of Spanish authority, the Manila Cathedral, the ruins of the Ayuntamiento that housed the City Council, and the Palacio del Gobernador (Palace of the Governor). We take the General Antonio Luna Street which leads to the San Agustin Church. This church survived the bombs of the Second World War and has preserved its treasures now on display in its museum. It was also here where the last Spanish governor-general drafted the terms of surrender of Manila to the Americans. We then cross the street to Casa Manila (Manila House), a colonial lifestyle museum with shops and a restaurant nearby.

This walking tour provides first-time visitors with an in-depth look at the role that Intramuros played in Philippine history.