Intramuros: A Nostalgic Trip Back Into Time

If you feel like you have too much of modern-day Manila? Then head to Intramuros and take a nostalgic journey back in time. Experience Spanish time Manila as you wander around the walled city – walking on cobblestones streets and admiring well-preserved Spanish-inspired structures including the ruins. Most structures inside the walled – city are from the Spanish colonization era, so, you’re like visiting both the Philippines and Spain at the same time!

Intramuros served as the military and political unit of the Spaniards. So I should say, it is a heavily fortified city – with 4.5 kilometers wall, defense structures like watchtowers, and massive gates at the entrances.

As much as the government wants to keep Intramuros as it was over a hundred years ago, few old structures (including buildings that were badly damaged during WW II) were demolished and made way to construct newer buildings with designs that match the general theme of the place. But as I can see, a lot of newer buildings standing right next to older ones resulted in an odd landscape. It’s disappointing that the government didn’t put much attention to preserving the totality of retaining the Spanish-era landscape of Intramuros.

A walking tour inside Intramuros is a learning experience of its history. The churches, plazas, museums – these things are like bits and pieces to complete a mosaic representation of the walled – city. With a horse-drawn carriage or the calesa as an option for walking, you can explore Intramuros more comfortably especially when the sun becomes too hot.

As you explore Intramuros, you’ll notice security guards clad in Spanish time ‘Guardia Civil’ uniform. Don’t worry, they may seem intimidating but they won’t bar you from enjoying the city.

Places to visit in Intramuros

While inside the walled – city, never leave Intramuros without visiting these must-see spots. These include Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, Casa Manila Museum, and Museo de Intramuros.

Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago is the most popular attraction in Intramuros. Aside from being the oldest fortress in the Philippines, it was also branded as the National Historical Landmark in 1951.

San Agustin Church

This church is under UNESCO. It’s a Baroque design and is also the oldest stone church still standing as of this day. Considering that it was built in 1607, it’s amazing that it’s still there despite the passage of time.

Manila Cathedral

It is another church situated in Intramuros and considered the first and oldest cathedral in Manila. It is the only church that has been put into the rank of a Basilica by the initiative of Pope John Paul II. It is branded as the “Mother of all churches, cathedrals, and basilicas in the Philippines.”

Casa Manila Museums

This casa or “home” in Intramuros showcases the life of the upper classes during the Spanish occupation. It’s a lifestyle museum where you can discover aesthetic stuff.

Baluarte de San Andres

Also known as Baluarte de San Nicolas. Dedicated to St. Andrew the Apostle, patron of Manila. Built as one of the main defenses on the landside of Intramuros. It is reinforced with a sentry box and a bombproof powder.

Puerta Real Gardens

Postigo del Palacio

One of the gates to Intramuros. Served as the private exit of the Governors and the Archbishops of Manila.

Museo de Intramuros

Museo de Intramuros is a different type of museum. It showcases antiques and artifacts that were used during the evangelization of the country.

Galleria de los Presidentes de la Republica Filipina

Dedicated to the presidents of the Republic of the Philippines

Puerto Real and Revellin Real de Bagumbayan

Part of the new defense plan in response to the 1726 British siege of Intramuros during the Seven Wars. Revellin constructed following the design of Miguel Antonio Gomez, 1771. Gate constructed, 1780. Revellin converted into an aquarium during the occupation of the United States, 1913. Damaged during the Second World War. Forms part of the fortifications of Intramuros.

So this is Intramuros and embarking on a nostalgic trip will make your travel in Manila a very interesting and memorable one. Whether you’re a millennial or enjoying life as a retiree, it’s so much fun to go back in time. The “walled city” of Intramuros is a rare place to find and we’re lucky we have it here in the Philippines!

Cuartel de Santa Lucia

Barracks of the Philippine Constabulary.

So this is Intramuros and embarking on a nostalgic trip will make your travel in Manila a very interesting and memorable one. Whether you’re a millennial or enjoying life as a retiree, it’s so much fun to go back in time. The “walled city” of Intramuros is a rare place to find and we’re lucky we have it here in the Philippines!

Thank you so much for traveling with me to one of the most important historical landmarks in the Philippines – Intramuros.