Melo Villareal
Our Lady of the Gate Parish, Daraga Church (Simbahan ng Daraga)
Tucked away on a peaceful hill in the town of Daraga lies an Old Spanish colonial church that is considered as one of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines. The Daraga Church in Daraga Albay is also known as the Our lady of the gate or the church of Nuestra Senora de la Porteria.
Daraga Church
Built in 1773, Cagsawa found it a temporary shelter as their church was buried under volcanic debris during the last eruption in 1814. This church is a true sign of crowning glory when it comes to religious architecture that is located in Albay.
Daraga Church: A historical treasure in Albay
This Church is located in a bustling town right above the top hill and has been standing there as a true sign of resilience and unwavering faith of Bicolanos.
The Church building is proudly declared as a National treasure and goes through restoration work to maintain the beauty of this religious structure. In the past, the church became a headquarter during the second world war by the Japanese army as it has a very cool temperature and is located at an elevated and strategic location.
There were clear signs of damage to the architecture, but today it is in perfect shape and considered one of the most beautiful churches in the country. The construction of this Baroque-style building is done with the use of volcanic materials which makes it even more special and unique.
You will find some similarities with other famous churches in Miagao Iloilo as they both share the identical undulating cornices and Solomonic columns. Because of the orders of the current priest, the church has been painted white, but the charm of the architect still remains the same.
The renovation of the interiors makes it even more popular among the visitors and the locals as it makes the church look good and clean. Towards the left of the church, you can see some life-size statues of popular saints.
Though the exterior has been eroded due to continuous exposure, the architectural details remain intact. To prevent it from regular exposure, the outer was coated with limestone so that the future generation could still see the beautiful facade of the church. The protective coat not only makes the church look new but saves it from further degrading.
The church is a gift from the Franciscan missionaries to Daraga, and the legacy continues to attract people even today. If you are fond of architecture, you should visit this place. This church is a true mix of Mexican baroque and renaissance gothic, and the result is truly marvelous.
Daraga Church is an priceless architectural and cultural treasure and an important part of the Albayano heritage.
How to Get to Daraga Church:
From Legazpi City: Daraga is about 6 kilometers away from the city. Take a Daraga-Legazpi jeepney route and ask the driver to bring you to Daraga municipal hall. From the Daraga Municipal Hall, take the stairs that will lead you up to the church.
From Cagsawa: Take the jeepney to Legazpi City and get off at Jollibee Daraga. From Jollibee, Daraga Church is just a few blocks away.
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Also read:
- Ultimate List Of The Best Hotels In Legazpi City
- Top 10 Favorite Hotels In Albay: Homes Away From Home
- 5 Escapes Tourists Would Love To Explore In Albay
- Visiting Cagsawa Ruins in Bicol
