[2024 Manila Attraction] Travel Guide for Fort Santiago (Updated Dec)
No.3 of Best Things to Do in Metro Manila
Castles
Historical Sites
Address:
HXVC+M5V, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Opening times:
Open today at 8:00-20:00Opening Soon
Recommended sightseeing time:
1-2 hours
Phone:
+63 2 8527 3155
5-Day In-Depth Tour of the Philippines: Explore the Entire Island.
5-Day In-Depth Tour of the Philippines: Beautiful scenery and unique culture await your exploration! Save this guide and start your wonderful journey now!
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🗺️ Itinerary:
DAY 1: Hong Kong - Manila
Arrive in Manila and start your trip to the Philippines!
DAY 2: Manila - Puerto Galera
Depart from Manila and head to Puerto Galera for some free time.
DAY 3: Coral Garden
Spend the whole day at Coral Garden and experience the wonderful world of marine life.
DAY 4: Fort Santiago - Manila Cathedral
Visit the historic Fort Santiago, then head to Manila Cathedral to experience the religious atmosphere.
DAY 5: Manila - Hong Kong
End your trip to the Philippines and return to Hong Kong from Manila.
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Must-Visit Attractions:
🌟 Manila Cathedral: This cathedral attracts every visitor with its simple yet magnificent appearance. Climb the three-story staircase and be amazed by the exquisite arches and carvings.
🏰 Fort Santiago: Want to feel the weight of history? This is the place to be! As a defensive fortification of the royal city, the castle's towers and batteries exude the mystery and solemnity of an ancient fortress.
🌊 Coral Garden: Want to explore the wonderful world underwater? Don't miss Coral Garden! This is a beautiful body of water, with various corals and marine life waiting to be discovered.
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Tips:
- November is a good time to visit the Philippines, with an average daytime temperature of about 31°C and nighttime temperature of about 25°C. Remember to bring light clothing👕.
- It takes about two weeks to apply for a Philippine visa, and even faster if you apply for an expedited visa, which takes only 3 days📆.
- Please note that the Philippine visa is a separate piece of paper, so don't lose it. You also need to prepare your return flight information🎫.
- The local currency is the Philippine peso, and the exchange rate with the Chinese yuan is about 1 to 0.12. Calculate in advance for easy shopping💸.
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The Philippines is a travel destination that will make your heart flutter. Come and explore it, and take away your unique memories!🌴✨
MarkusAndersen
Manila Trip
When we tell friends we are going to Manila, they are very surprised. to them, Mania, nothing much to visit, and traffic conditions are bad. well, we have never been there, and the flight fare to there is fine. That's why we decided to check out and check in there. we are happy for this trip. Just once a life time, this is definitely fine.
Niko Soh
A Day in Intramuros, Manila
A memorable day in Manila’s walled city! Walked through Fort Santiago, admired the beautiful Manila Cathedral, an iconic symbol of resilience and faith, and ended at the historic Palacio del Gobernador. Intramuros is a must-visit for history, culture, and architecture lovers. Each corner here tells a story of the past. #Intramuros #Manila #ManilaCathedral#historicallandmarks
Cristis
A Journey Through Colonial History
#traveldiaries
Intramuros, the “Walled City,” is Manila’s most historic district. Built during the Spanish colonial period, it’s a place filled with centuries-old churches, plazas, and fortresses. The highlights include Fort Santiago, where you can learn about the life and legacy of national hero José Rizal, and the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its impressive baroque architecture. Walking through Intramuros feels like stepping into another era, surrounded by ancient walls and horse-drawn carriages.
Tips:
• Best Time to Visit: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
• Don’t Miss: The rooftop of the Bayleaf Hotel for panoramic views of the walled city.
RamziRazan
Philippines' ancient castle in the center of Manila city.
San Diego Castle is located in Manila, Philippines. It is an ancient castle that was once the political, military, and cultural center of the Philippines. The castle was built during the Spanish colonial period and was the first city established by the Spanish in Manila after conquering the Philippines. San Diego Castle is the oldest city in Philippine history and the early urban core of Manila.
San Diego Castle began construction in the mid-16th century and was a colonial city of Spain in the Philippines. It was surrounded by high walls and fortresses to protect the Spanish authorities and colonizers from external invasion. There are many buildings from the Spanish era and ancient churches in the castle, such as the Church of St. Augustine, the Church of St. Francis, and the Church of St. Dominic.
San Diego Castle was once the center of political and military power in the Philippines and one of the most important colonial cities of Spain in Asia. However, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, San Diego Castle lost its political and economic importance and suffered severe war damage during World War II.
Today, San Diego Castle is regarded as an important historical and cultural landmark in Manila, attracting a large number of tourists and local residents to visit. The castle has museums, art galleries, and cultural venues to showcase the rich heritage of Philippine history and culture. Visitors can wander around the castle, admire the ancient buildings and walls, experience the historical atmosphere of the Spanish era, and enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the castle.
PassportWanderlust99
Historic place
Fort Santiago is the oldest Spanish bastion in the Philippines. Situated inside the walled city of Intramuros in Manila, the site witnessed many historical events of the Philippines.
How to get there
The fastest and most accessible way to reach the fort is by a guided tour of Old Manila, but you can also go on your own by public transport. If you're taking the LRT, get off at Central Station and take a quick walk to the Fort Entrance, or get off at Carriedo Station and catch a jeepney to Mabini.
Best time to visit
It can be visited anytime but it’s best to go during dry season. Fort Santiago is open daily from 8 a.m. to 11
Entrance fee
There is a minimal entrance fee to Fort Santiago for adults. For students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, there is a discount.
Tala_Travel10
Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago or the fort is one of the most important historical sites in Manila. Several people died in its prisons during the Spanish Empire and World War II. This place was preserved as part of the Philippines' rich history. Today, this is one of the tourist spots in Manila, Philippines.
#mytripvlog#tripblazers#awesomepic
Aireen Lao
🇵🇭One of the saddest places in the Ph🇵🇭
FORT SANTIAGO DUNGEONS
In 1945 following the liberation of Manila during the Second World War, the US Army🇺🇸 discovered 600 decomposing corpses inside the dungeons. The conditions were so cramped that all prisoners died from suffocation and heat exhaustion. The bodies were subsequently buried en masse on a site near the dungeons which is now marked by a white marble cross✝️. the dungeon was originally built to store weaponry during the Spanish occupation. Eventually, a new storage area for artillery was built on higher ground, and this chamber was turned into a series of prison cells. Statues depicting Filipino and American prisoners of war during the Japanese occupation of Manila are on display at different areas in the dungeon. None of the bodies were recognizable, but some relatives of the victims were able to identify their family through pieces of clothing, such as a belt buckle with a name inscribed on it. Right beside the entrance to the dungeon, a white cross marks the mass grave of the 600 victims who were trapped inside Fort Santiago’s dungeon.[Worship]
#fortsantiagointramuros #THEDUNGEON #WHITECROSS
B.B.
🇵🇭🏰Fort Santiago🔝INTRAMUROS/Manila
One of the most famous spots is Intramuros, which prods visitors to remember the Spanish colonial era.🏰Fort Santiago, built in 1571, is a citadel built by Spanish navigator and governor Miguel López de Legazpi for the newly established city of Manila in the Philippines🇵🇭. Fort Santiago has become a famous tourist destination as it presents how Filipinos were tortured during the spot where Fort Santiago now stands was once a Muslim kingdom ruled by a chieftain named Rajah Sulayman. When the Spaniards landed in the Philippines in 1571, they destroyed the site and built a fortress instead. The fort was destroyed in 1574 during the Chinese attack led by Limahong.
The stone fort was built between 1589 and 1592 and was repaired and extended after being damaged by the 1645 earthquake.
In 1762, the British came and ruled until 1764, using Fort Santiago as their headquarters. The Americans then arrived in 1778 and renovated the fort which became a U.S. Army Philippines Division Command Center. And in 1942 during World War II, the Japanese conquered the Philippines and made use of the fort as their military base and prison. It is said that they have imprisoned and tortured about 2,500 to 3,000 Filipinos and Americans on the site. The U.S Military turned over the bastion to the Philippine Government in 1946, and it was announced as a Shrine of Freedom in 1950.
🧲attractions inside Fort Santiago:
⬆️.Plaza Moriones.
✅.Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier.
☑️.Ruins of the American Barracks.
✔️.Plaza De Armas.
✅.Jose Rizal Shrine/Museum.
☑️.Rajah Sulayman Theatre.
✅.Postigo de la Nuestra Senora de Soledad.
✝️.The White Cross
💰entrance fee is 75p
#fortsantiagointramuros #intramuros #manila #philippines #philippinestrip #summervacation
B.B.
Intramuros Walled City
Taking you back to WWII. Museums and dungeons well preserved with explanations along the way. Fort Santiago is one of the historical landmarks of the country. The Fort museum illustrates the history, struggle and the country's National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. At walk ends with an astonishing view of manila China Town city though the highest peak of the fort. A good two hours to spend around the fort.
Absolutely worth a visit.
Address - HXVC+M5V, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Highlights - Historical place during Spanish era. The place is clean and well maintained. Get a guide to fully immerse yourself of the history of the place.
#tripblazers #urbanexplorer #manila #philippines
Wander we go
KA (LOOB) AN: Highligts on The Filipino
The Nayong Pilipino Foundation recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a line up of events showcasing and highlighting the Filipino culture, history and arts. (KA) LOOB (AN) is an art Exhibition at the IFC Theatre in Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila.
The exhibition had on display a variety of Ethnological artifacts from native jewelry and adornments, indigenous and local clothing, textiles, traditional tools and weaponry. It also showcased a pre colonial burial from the Ufugaos and Mindanaon, a tribe to this day has never been penetrated by the Colonizers and retained the cultures and their way of lives for over 500 years until present time.
Ka (LOOB) has some similiraties in approach and presentation of the Filipino culture as Indio Genius by Kidlat Tahimik at the National Museum of Anthropology.
#artshunting
raskolnikov
🧱Fort Santiago, a historical site in the Philippines
#Overseas travel #Manila travel #Manila
🧳It has a history of being part of the Intramuros walls where Jose Rizal was imprisoned in Fort Santiago before his execution.
🧱Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
🧱It's a good place to visit at least once if you're traveling to Manila.
🧱You can take a picture with the river flowing towards the canal in the background.
🧱The part that was destroyed during World War II was restored in the 1950s and turned into a park. It's a place with great historical significance as many Filipinos were imprisoned in Fort Santiago and lost their lives during the Japanese occupation.
만득이의 세계여행
Fort Santiago Manila Lunita Park
1.
Address - Fort Santiago lunita park manila
Highlights - a very valuable memory of our Philippine heroes like Jose P. Rizal in lunita park mamila his heroic statue still living there,Spanish navigator and governor Miguel López de Legazpi for the newly established city of Manila in the Philippines. The defense fortress is located in Intramuros, the walled city of Manila. The fort is one of the most important historical sites in Manila.The fort is one of the most important historical sites in Manila. Several lives were lost in its prisons during the Spanish Empire and World War II. José Rizal, one of the Philippine national heroes, was imprisoned here before his execution in 1896. The Rizal Shrine museum displays memorabilia of the hero in their collection and the fort features, embedded onto the ground in bronze, his footsteps representing his final walk from his cell to the location of the actual execution.
It is only a few meters away from the Manila Cathedral..
Rating -highly recommended destination list for who love historical places because this are our National Heroes history of Philippines....
Juliebower
During my visit to Manila, Phillipines, I enjoyed my time in Fort Santiago. This historical fortress left my interest go wild. I walked around and enjoyed what’s left in this historical building from the 16th century. The atmosphere is nice here and the view overlooking the city is also not bad at all. Overall, I recommend this place very much. Wonderful. #wintergetaway
#wintergetaway
_TS***1x
The fort was located at the back of Intramuros and overlooked the Pasig River. Admission fee was a bargain at only 75 pesos. It included access to the entire fort and the Jose Rizal Museum. The parade ground with the dancing water fountain was the main view upon entering. Off to the sides were various cannons, ammunition and dilapidated buildings with mostly just the walls reinforced to keep them standing. Stairs up to the walls gave an elevated view including the golf course. After crossing the moat, the path brought us to the section of the fort that was better maintained. In addition to the museum, one building was used to display Filipino cultural sites built out of LEGO and another floor was set aside for LEGO building activities. The fort itself was also the scene where a large number of prisoners were killed near the end of World War II. A memorial stands nearby as a remembrance. The two story Rizal Museum was the highlight inside the the fort and air conditioned. The curators implemented a detailed and comprehensive timeline of Jose Rizal’s life which built the case of his innocence.
#givethanks
#givethanks
Collegiala015
A historic landmark in Manila🇵🇭👫😎
#philippinestrip
During my visit to Fort Santiago in Manila, I was captivated by its rich history and well-preserved architecture. Located in Intramuros, the fort is a powerful reminder of the Philippines’ colonial past. I strolled along the cobblestone paths, admiring the towering gates and ancient walls. The dungeons, though haunting, gave me insight into the fort’s turbulent history. One of the highlights was visiting the Rizal Shrine, which honors José Rizal, the country’s national hero. The serene gardens and lush greenery offered a peaceful retreat amidst the historic ambiance. Exploring Fort Santiago was a memorable experience, blending history, culture, and a sense of connection to the nation’s resilient spirit.
NeverStopExploring
Manila City: A Vibrant Blend of History, Culture, and Modern Life
Experience the dynamic energy of Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, where colonial history, modern developments, and rich cultural heritage intersect. Explore the historic Intramuros, home to ancient Spanish architecture and landmarks like Fort Santiago and Manila Cathedral. Visit the world-class National Museum, stroll along the scenic Manila Baywalk, and shop in vibrant markets like Divisoria. Enjoy delicious Filipino food from local street vendors and unwind in the lively nightlife of Makati. This guide takes you through the must-see attractions and hidden gems of Manila, a city that offers a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern vibrance.
#weekendgetaways #manila
Cayden Explorer
Step Back in Time: Exploring the Historic Fort Santiago
A visit to Fort Santiago in Manila is a journey back in time to the Spanish colonial era. Walking through its stone gates and cobblestone pathways, you can almost feel the weight of history in the air. The fort’s walls have stood for centuries, witnessing key moments in Philippine history, including the life and final days of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, who was imprisoned here before his execution. Exploring the chambers and ruins, you’ll find plaques and exhibits detailing the fort’s rich past. From its gardens to the Pasig River view, Fort Santiago is a quiet yet powerful reminder of resilience and patriotism, inviting visitors to reflect on the sacrifices that shaped the nation.
#myitinerary #thingstodo #citydaytours
On The Go Traveller
FORT SANTIAGO
This trip is from KLO to MNL. Visiting from the Philippine Hero Shrine Dr. Jose Rizal is one of my bucketlist. The historicsl value of this place is enormous which every steps is a learning of history.
rey montaño
“Fort Santiago: A Historic Gem in Manila’s Intramuros”
#summerdestinations
Fort Santiago, located in Manila's Intramuros district, is a historic citadel with deep ties to Philippine history. Easily accessible from various parts of Manila, it offers a glimpse into the Spanish colonial era. Explore the well-preserved walls, dungeons, and the Rizal Shrine, which commemorates the national hero, José Rizal. The fort’s gardens and scenic views of the Pasig River provide a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. For a comprehensive visit, allow a few hours to stroll through the grounds and visit the museum exhibits.
#philippines
JJJay
Where legends were Born
Layers of History.
Amazing Jazzeyy
Philippines the fort San Tiago. ....japan.amerika Spain of world War ...
Fort Santiago is a historic fortress located in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines.
Built by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi in 1571, it served various purposes throughout history, including as a defense fortress during Spanish colonial rule and as a Japanese prison camp during World War II.
Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and historical site, showcasing centuries of Philippine history and culture.
It is the best place to understand the history of Philippines at Fort Santiago Intramuros !
Address: HXVC+M5V, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Ticket price: 70php
Youtohbindou
Manila
An interesting & informative historical focus point.
A dedicated historical monument in honor of Dr. Rizal who was mercilessly executed here.
The whole are around The site is worth a visit including the neighbouring park dedicated to#Manila
Jonas1997
THE HISTORICAL FORT SANTIAGO.
Very large and historical place to visit. Entry is cheap and quick. The site is very large so there is no crowding whatsoever. There is a lot of great history about Jose Rizal and Manila in the fort.
After you enter there are a few shops selling souvenirs and refreshments that are comfortable and fairly priced.
There is an interesting Lego exhibit of the old churches and buildings that used to be in Manila that were most destroyed by the Japanese when they invaded.
There is also access to the prison where many people died and a mass grave so be respectful when in those areas. (There is signage to remind you)
I spent about three hours here and loved every inch of it.
#historicallandmarks #falltrip #localguides #familytrip #大阪美食 #海外遊頭頓海灘
THE VACATIONER!
Rizal Shrine at Fort Santiago
#manilatrip
The shrine is located in former military barracks that were reconstructed and adopted to serve as a museum in 1953.
Most revered national hero dr Jose Rizal spent his last days imprisoned there before his public execution on December 29, 1896. The museum showcases Jose Rizal’s prison cell, his trial room. Among the exhibits are the alcohol stove in which he hid his poem Mi ultimo adios, his vertebrae (where the bullet hit him), his coat, hat, case and more.
Worth visiting. The entrance is free once you are in Fort Santiago.
Travela-dic
fort Santiago in Manila. a must see site
#manilatrip
Visited Fort Santiago in Manila. it is a beautiful first loaded with history ranging for the Spanish occupation all the way to WW2. you can see the cell where Philippines greatest martyr was imprisoned and executed. it is a history that will stir admiration in anybody. also it has the Barracks where the US soldiers were housed during the Japanese invasion. you can still see all the battle damage. the grounds are beautiful and the golf course that wraps around the first is a great play. fort Santiago is a must see for anyone visiting Manila.
_TI***lu
“Intramuros” old-world, home to Spanish-era
Fort Santiago - built in 1571, is a citadel built by Spanish governor Miguel López de Legaspi for the newly established city of Manila in the Philippines.
Fort Santiago forms one corner of the walled city of Intramuros and is a great source of history, showcasing historical remains and other memorabilia.
Walking around Fort Santiago,Intramuros will make you feel like you're walking in 16th century Manila, complete with the cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages!
Within is the beautifully presented Rizal Shrine museum, the building where Dr José Rizal – the Philippines' national hero – was incarcerated as he awaited execution in 1896.
#falltrip #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #manilatrip #manilastay #philippinestrip #philippinestravel
Getting There -
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Vicisakey10
Fort Santiago Manila 🗺️
#manilatrip
Fort Santiago in Manila, Philippines, is a historical treasure that takes on a unique charm in autumn. Located within Intramuros, the walled city of Manila, this historic fortress provides a glimpse into the country's rich history.
In autumn, the fort's weathered stone walls and lush greenery create a captivating backdrop. The slight chill in the air adds to the atmosphere, making it an ideal time to explore the nooks and crannies of the fort.
The park-like setting of Fort Santiago, with its beautiful gardens and fountains, is particularly delightful in the season. As you stroll through the pathways and admire the ancient structures, you're immersed in the beauty of the historical setting.
The proximity to other cultural attractions, like the San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral, means you can easily combine your visit with multiple enriching experiences. In autumn, Manila often hosts events and festivals, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the city.
Fort Santiago in autumn is a historical and educational destination, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and the charm of the season. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore the Philippines' rich heritage in the midst of autumn's beauty. #asia #manila #vacation