The Inquisitive Explorer

 

Paoay Church was built in 1710 by the Augustinian friars during the Spanish colonization of the Philippines.It was made of  bricks, corals and lumbers which is still preserved to this day. It's bell tower, which is separated from the church is also made of corals. With its unique baroque architecture it was designated as one of UNESCO'S world heritage site.

 We just came from Pagudpud and we left our bags in the bus terminal so we can still go to Paoay before we left. We took a jeepney going to Paoay and reached the place at around 5pm. Good thing I was still able to take pictures before dawn.




 I couldn't believe that they have maintained this church after all these years. It was picturesque!


 It feels like you're in Hispanic Era, If one pays close attention to the details of the exterior, you'll notice the corals used to build the church. Brilliant Idea!





                                                                                                                                     



San Agustin Church or Paoay Church is one of the few remaining Baroque churches in the Philippines. It was built to withstand earthquakes and I'm proud that it's still existing.




 Aside from the Church and it's separate Bell tower. I was also surprised to see a Garden right beside the Church.It's called "The Prayer Garden". The garden is just as serene as the church and it feels like you're in mini Eco park.

One Last Picture before sunset :)

 I was very satisfied with every detail of the church and the garden. I didn't know this kind of beauty still exist. After seeing Paoay Church, I promise myself to visit more historical churches in the Philippines. It Equipped me with knowledge and learned to appreciate  how blessed we are.
  
 " The deepest secret is that life is not a process of discovery, but a process of creation. You are not discovering yourself, but creating yourself anew."

Legazpi City is the capital of Albay where the famous Mayon Volcano is located. It is actually, the Largest city in the Bicol Region subdivided into 70 barangays. A 2 hours drive away from Naga City,  If you are fond of nature trippin' then this place will fit your imagination.



It was just a Quick trip to Legazpi, an overnight trip but it's worth it. Let me share with you the top places to visit when you get there.



 The Famous Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins






How to Get There?


Use your travel weapon, "ASK". We asked several locals just to make sure that we are on the right path. Luckily they gave us one answer. You can take a jeepney at the public market going to Guinsiliban. Mind you, you'll see jeepneys everywhere. Ask the drver to drop you off at Cagsawa Ruins and from there, just take a tricycle.



You might be wondering why you often hear Cagsawa ruins and Mayon Volcano together, but it's totally different. Cagsawa Ruins are the remnants of an 18th century Franciscan church, the Cagsawa church.  It was destroyed during the most destructive eruption of the nearby Mayon Volcano in 1814 and only the church tower remains. It is catually considered as a perfect spot because you can view the volcano from the Cagsawa Ruins. Its aesthetic scenery and the perfect cone makes a picturesque backdrop for photography. But unfortunately, it wasn't a good weather so we weren't able to see the perfect cone. But we surely had fun roaming around the place, praying and shopping.







                        MUST TRY! You can buy this Special Halo-Halo inside the Cagsawa Ruins
                                   ( just along the souvenir shops) and I swear you'll like it!

Place: Bantay Belfry
Location: Bantay district of Vigan
Fees: Donation only
Travel Time: around 10 mins from Vigan
Best Time to Go: 5pm or before sunset
MUST know: Bring a bottle of water and Towel


We were roaming around Calle Crisologo when we took a Calesa ride. The driver invited us to go to Bantay Belfy during the Calesa Tour, which we agreed. It took as around 10 mins from Calle Crisologo and it was extremely hot when we reached the place. Just to give you a head up, Calesa Tour costs 150 php for 1 hour ride. So no matter how many hours you spent on one location, your time will continue to run. So my advice? if you're planning to ride a Calesa, put this on your bottom list since it will consume most of your time.

                                                           

Bantay Church and its Belfy is one of the oldest surviving churches in Ilocos Sur, it was originally built in 1590 but it suffered from Wolrd War II and only the original belfry survived. To preserve it's historical value, it was reconstructed in 1950. It was said that Diego Silang (a revolutionary leader who fought courageously against spaniards and establish an independent Ilocano nation)and his troops fought with Spaniards in 1973 on the same ground that visitors will walk upon entering the Belfry.










                                                                       The Ceiling


After few mintutes of picture taking and sight seeing, we went down and again, I had to be careful watching my steps. The Exit is different from the Entry point and it will lead you through St. Augustine Church. It was named after St. Augustine, who was the patron saint by the Augustinian friars.












Found outside the church is the statue of Our Lady of Charity, who is Nueva Segovia’s patroness. From the church, she is said to have watched over the city over many generations. There is no entrance fee but you can drop your donations on the big box upon entering the Belfry.






This is the best place to offer your prayers and sentiments. I am glad that I was able to paid visit and Thumbs up to Ilocanos for preserving this historical place. Just don't forget to bring your towel and a bottle of water because roaming around the place involves so much strength and effort but I promise, you will surely love this place.


" Never be afraid to try new things, and make some mistakes, it's all part of life and learning."