The Romblon Cathedral

Romblon, the capital town of Romblon Province, has many things to boast about. Beyond its natural wonders, Romblon offers heritage and religious sites that tourists should explore. Considered the oldest Roman Catholic church in the province, Saint Joseph Cathedral was one of the 26 colonial churches declared National Cultural Treasures in 2001.

Built by the Recollect Fathers in the 15th century, Saint Joseph Cathedral features numerous artistic and tasteful details. The stained-glass windows, the Byzantine altar, religious paintings, and antique icons mesmerize visitors. Every year, the residents of Romblon and nearby islands celebrate the traditional fiesta. This is to honor the patron saint of Romblon, St. Nino. The cathedral still uses an ancient copper bell, part of the construction from 1640-1726.

In 1991, the image of the Nuestra Señor Sto. Niño de Romblon, placed at the altar of the Saint Joseph Cathedral, was stolen. It was only recovered in January 2013 by local Catholic authorities after 22 years of being missing.

The entire structure is built from local materials, including coral bricks and blocks. This cathedral is rich in history, but the best time to visit is when it is open for Mass. The church’s keepers do not allow anyone inside if there is no scheduled gathering at the cathedral. However, moving outside the church and the campus gives a fabulous feeling. The place is majestic and rich in history.

The cathedral is the center of many fiestas, baptisms, and final farewells. Every Roman Catholic in Romblon has been baptized in this cathedral, which makes it a source of pride and glory for the locals.

For visitors who come here, standing in the plaza and facing the cathedral, they will clearly feel as if they have been transported back to their colonial days. The real feeling is majestic, grand, and overwhelming.

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