Why would someone like me be interested, astonished by and pleased with an old holy architecture? The truth about God and his people are timeless. They say in theology, if a certain theology book is new, it probably isn’t true.
Though the people behind these wonderful spiritual establishments are dead, they are as alive as the Scripture in their Supreme Rule of Faith. What is more amazing is that, there are still people who has always been there to enshrine some spiritual traditions while pursuing what is innovative and novel.
These structures of different churches, old and new can be interesting and informative. The stories behind every corner of these mystical architecture are treasure-filled, stalwart with Faith.
OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS PARISH CHURCH in Atimonan Quezon was built in 1640 which served as a defense tower, a guard post to protect the town from pirates. It was burned during an invasion and was rebuilt after two years but again destroyed by fire. During Second World War, the whole town was leveled off by bombing and later reconstructed again in 1979.
ST. MICHAEL D’ ARCHANGEL MINOR BASILICA in Tayabas Quezon was one of the oldest churches in the century, it was first built in 1585 by the Franciscan Friars and was repaired in 1590 using nipa and palm. In 1600, they used bricks. However, it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1743 and was just rebuilt in 1856. You will notice that this church has a very long length than the usual and the clock on its bell tower is implausibly still working.nue of liturgical celebrations. Pilgrims from far away places visit this church in devotion to San Diego de Alcala who is believed by them to help heal the sick.
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH in Tabaco City, Albay, built by the secular clergy in 19th century, is locally known as San Juan Bautista Parish. This church was declared by the National Museum as one of the National Cultural Treasures. The stones on the walls bear masons’ marks, hardly ever seen elsewhere in the country. This church was dedicated to the glorious Precursor of our Saviour, St. John the Baptist, now the patron saint of the city.
CHURCH OF SAINT LOUIS OF TOULOUSE in Lucban Quezon was first built in 1593. This church is surrounded by gardens and grottos, and by old stone walls. Like the other old churches, it has been rebuilt several times after being ruined by fire and war.
ST. FERDINAND CATHEDRAL in Lucena City was founded on 1881. Its design is also lengthy and has very beautifully designed stained glasses with well preserved statues of saints and has a usual classic cathedral character as you will feel the devout spirit inside this church.
CHURCH OF NUESTRA SENORA DE PENA DE FRANCIA in Naga City housed the image of Virgin Mary and eventually moved to OUR LADY OF PENAFRANCIA BASILICA MINORE. The whole Basilica, church and complex has to be treated with anti-termite chemicals to control and exterminate destructive pests attacking and damaging the structures. 
Eventually, they have provided everyone a Perpetual Adoration Chapel on the side wing of the church for personal prayers at any time of the day. Known as it is, devotees and pilgrims kept increasing every year.
THE CAGSAWA CHURCH was buried gradually by Mayon Volcano eruption in 1814 until it covered the church wherein only the belfry tower remained above ground. For centuries now, the belfry of the church in Cagsawa has been the mute attestation to Mount Mayon’s deadliest eruption. There were thousands of people who died, including those who sought shelter inside the Cagsawa Church where they prayed for safety. It has become one of Albay’s most famous landmarks and is one of its most popular tourist attractions.
Seeing these churches has made me realize how important it is for people to recognize the significance of its existence at this time in our life. Each of them symbolizes how far we have come and how deep we have become. These are just some of what we must consider as par of our cultural and spiritual heritage. It is important that we learn to contribute, in our own little ways, in the cultivation of these sacred structures.
Just divine…. blissful…. mystical….. So heavenly.
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