If you are looking to explore the history of the Philippines through the ages there are a number of historical monuments in the Philippines including the time-honored buildings, palaces, and parks where you can learn about the glorious past of the Philippines. The presence of these monuments and museums will take you on a walk through Philippines's rich history.
If you are willing to have in-depth historical information about the Philippines, we recommend that you take a wonderful guided tour to cover the major historical attractions. Also, check the opening and closing time for each so that you can organize your time. Make sure that you go through the complete list of important monuments in Philippines for a great trip:
1. Fort San Pedro
Fort San Pedro in Cebu City, the Philippines built by the Spaniards under the command of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in 1565, Fort San Pedro in Cebu City is the oldest fort in the Philippines. It is located near the port area of Cebu, in an area now called Plaza Independencia. This important monument in the Philippines houses a museum where you can find significant memorabilia, documents, and paintings highlighting the beginnings of Spanish rule in the Philippines. As Cebu is becoming a highly urbanized metropolis, a trip to Fort San Pedro will make you realize that it’s a peaceful oasis in the city.
2. Sheik Karim al Makdum Mosque
The Sheik Karim al Makdum Mosque in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, is the oldest monument in the Philippines declared as a National Cultural Treasure. Arab trader Sheik Makdum Karim built this mosque in 1380 that features pillars, made of Ipil hardwood, known to be some of the oldest Islamic artifacts in the entire country. Islamic architecture and style are also popular for its intricate designs. A visit to this historical place gives you a glimpse of the colorful and rich Islamic culture that is prominent in the southern parts of the Philippines.
3. Dr. Pio Valenzuela Ancestral Residence
The city got its name from one of its great sons, Dr. Pio Valenzuela, a young medical doctor and the leader of the Philippine revolutionary movement, the Katipunan. Dr. Valenzuela was born and raised in this town, which was formerly called Polo. According to the history books, Valenzuela was part of the triumvirate that led the movement, which included Andres Bonifacio and Emilio Jacinto. Valenzuela was in charge of the revolutionary publication “Ang Kalayaan'' where he wrote several articles under his nom de plume. The house where he lived and died still stands to this day, on Veliilla Street in the village of Pariancillo Villa. Visitors, however, may be limited to view this most popular monument in the Philippines from the street as the premises are off-limits to the public.
4. Leyte Landing Memorial Park
The Leyte Landing Memorial Park or also known as the MacArthur Landing Memorial Park in Palo, Leyte marks the site of General Douglas MacArthur’s return to the Philippines to fulfill his promise to the Filipinos in helping free the country from Japanese forces. His now-immortal remark “I shall return.” was fulfilled on October 20, 1944, which commenced the largest naval battle of World War II. Bronze statues made by sculptor Anastacio Caedo were installed in this popular historical landmark in Philippines to commemorate his historic landing.
5. San Diego de Alcala Church
The ruins of San Diego de Alcala Church, completed in 1632. The first Catholic church that was established in the city is the San Diego de Alcala Church, through the efforts of Father Juan Taranco and the barangay head of Polo, Don Juan Monsod. This important landmark in Philippines was completed in 1632, which makes the church almost four centuries old. During the Japanese occupation, the church was destroyed by bombs, but the bell tower and a part of the front entrance remained. To this day, the belfry and the arched entrance serves as a reminder of the grand church that stood here. A new church was built next to the ruins.