Intramuros
Intramuros, the old capital of Manila, was
built in 1571 and remains a monumental relic of the Philippines’ Spanish
period.
With crumbling walls that have survived for
more than four hundred years, Intramuros has centuries-old walls, bulwarks, and
plazas.
As a tourist destination, Intramuros both
educates and entertains.
Fort
Santiago
Fort Santiago is an important part of the
Spanish history and culture that pervades the Philippines. The fort is a
magnificent structure that has been occupied by various nations. It is part of the
city of Intramuros.
Fort Santiago was a Spanish base, housing the
Spanish military. The fort also had extensive dungeons that kept prisoners. The
Japanese took over the fort during the Second World War.
The site is heavily fortified with thick
stone walls, high walls and a moat. One of the most distinctive features is the
arch that serves as the entrance to the fort.
An important event that took place here is
the imprisonment and execution of the Spanish National War Hero, José Rizal.
Also included here are the final footsteps that he took from his prison cell to
the place of his execution.
Malacañang
Palace / Museum
Malacañang Palace is one of the most historic
and most visited structures in the Philippines. Since 1863 it has been the
official residence of the country’s President. The palace tour focuses on all
former Presidents of the Philippines and the memorabilia which highlights their
respective periods of leadership.
Corregidor
Corregidor is a small rocky island about 48
kilometres west of Manila. Located at the entrance to Manila Bay, this island
fortress stands as a memorial for the heroism of Filipino and American soldiers
who fought against the overwhelming Japanese forces during World War II.