Tumauini Church

During our recent visit to Isabela Province to cover the Guinness World Record holder Bambanti Festival, we got the chance to visit the Beautiful Church of Tumauini. We’ve heard that we shouldn’t leave Isabela without seeing it.

The Church of Tumauini, also known as the Church of San Matias, is one of Isabela’s proudest treasures. It was built in 1783 and completed in 1805.

The most famous feature of the church is its cylindrical bell tower (cake bell tower). It is the only one of its kind here in the country. From afar, the church’s exterior is noticeable because of the firm red bricks used as its foundation.

As beautiful as it looks from afar, taking even a closer look would amaze you even more. Take a closer look at the bricks; you will see delicate, intricate designs of flowers, saints, and angels. You can see how much effort was put into it.

The church was actually designated a National Historic Landmark by the National government in 1989.

The uniqueness of the church may have come from some of the damage it took during the war. The damage was repaired, but it still left some distinct charm and appeal.

As for the inside, it is as astonishing on the outside as it is on the inside. The aged look of the walls, the dark wooden chairs, the precise construction of the floor, and the overall atmosphere it exudes are a very different sight compared to what we usually see in Metro Manila.

There is a circular staircase inside that leads to a bridge connecting the church and the belfry.

Explore the design and details of the church and the bell tower. Both are connected by a bridge. The redness of the church and the pale white color of the bell tower create a complementary contrast.

The bell tower is actually similar to a wedding cake because of its tiered look. The whole bell tower looks like it has been ringed with beads and laces; all are perfectly aligned and carefully placed.

The paint of the bell tower is fading. Some may think that the fading paint detracts from its beauty; however, for me, it adds character to the whole place.

How to Get There

Don’t miss out on seeing how old things can still be beautiful. Not sure about how to get here? We can help you with that.

If you will be coming from Tuguegarao:

There is a van that is headed to Ilagan Isabela, you go down at Tumauini town center. From there, you can ride a trike to the church. Or if you want, you can actually just walk it.

If you will be coming from Manila:

Just take a bus that is headed to Tuguegarao, make sure to tell the bus collector that you will be getting off at the Tumauini town center. You can also ask him to remind you if you’re close, so you don’t miss your stop. Then it’s either you take a trike or just walk to the church.

Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels and Resorts in Isabela Province, Philippines via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about other Cultural and Heritage sites in the province of Isabela? Follow #TeamOutofTown on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Bloglovin, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.

Also See: Bell Church Of Baguio City