20 Best Historical Sites
to Visit in the Philippines

Fort Santiago

Visit Fort Santiago, one of the oldest fortifications in Manila, which the Spaniards built. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was earlier used by the American and Spanish forces, who used it as a fort and prison. Currently, it is a shrine in honour of Dr. Jose Rizal, a Filipino nationalist whose political writings inspired the Philippine Revolution. This historical landmark serves as a testimony to the lives of those who fought for Philippine freedom.

Location: Intramuros, Manila

Year of Establishment: 1593

Entry Fee: Yes

Intramuros

Intramuros is also called the walled city and is a popular tourist attraction. Built back during the Spanish colonisation, it holds some of the popular points of interest like Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, Casa Manila and many more. You can also see many Art Deco buildings that were constructed there in the 20th century. While walking down the cobblestone streets, you get to see both old and new architectural buildings.

Location: Manila

Year of Establishment: 1571

Entry Fee: No

Read Also: Best Places to Visit in Manila | Manila Travel Guide | Things to Do in Manila | Beach Near Manila

Fort San Pedro

Don't miss the smallest and oldest triangular bastion fort in the Philippines, Fort San Pedro. Renowned for its architectural, cultural, historical, and educational significance, this fort stands as a symbol of pride for the country and also highlights the early periods of Spanish colonisation. Throughout history, this fort has been put to use for different purposes, be it a military defence structure, a prison camp, a rebel stronghold, or even a city zoo.

Location: Cebu City, Cebu

Year of Establishment: 1565

Entry Fee: Yes

Read Also: Travel Guide to Cebu | Things to Do in Cebu | Best Beaches in Cebu

MacArthur Leyte

Go to Leyte Island to see MacArthur Leyte, which is a protected area that commemorates the historic landing of General Douglas MacArthur, who played a vital role in World War II. This 6.78-hectare site now serves as a popular tourist destination, and you can also witness seven sculpted figures that depict General Douglas and his entourage on the historic day of landing.

Location: Palo, Leyte Island

Year of Establishment: 1944

Entry Fee: No

Aguinaldo Shrine

Marvel at the beautiful blend of nationalistic and historical elements of Aguinaldo Shrine, which helps in reflecting the spirit of the Philippine Revolution as well as the Declaration of Independence. You get to find the influences of Art Deco and Art Nouveau, which helped in bringing out the nationalistic themes in a more lively manner. It served as a testament to the 1896 Revolution as well as the 1898 declaration.

Location: Kawit, Cavite

Year of Establishment: 1964

Entry Fee: No

Rizal Park

Rizal Park, also called Luneta Park, is a large urban park in Manila which serves as a symbol of the Philippine national identity. The iconic attraction in the Rizal Park is the Rizal Monument, featuring a bronze statue of Jose Rizal, who was executed here. At present, it has become a popular spot for recreational activities, such as enjoying a picnic, or spending leisure time and others.

Location: Ermita, Manila

Year of Establishment: 1913

Entry Fee: No

Quezon Memorial

Get stunned by the architectural beauty of the Quezon Memorial, which is known as a large park, housing a museum, shrine and remains of former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon and his wife Aurora Aragon Quezon. The monument is 66 metres tall, featuring three pylons, depicting the age of Quezon at the time of his death. You can find the elements of Art Deco and Neoclassical architecture present at the building.

Location: Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Year of Establishment: 1939

Entry Fee: No

Malacanang Palace

Go to see the official workplace and residence of the President of the Philippines. It is both a historical landmark as well as a symbol of the nation's leadership, which has served as home to leaders since the Spanish colonial period. You can find the architectural blend of neo-classical and Spanish colonial styles reflected by the building. This building also testifies to the journey of the country passing from colonial history towards independence.

Location: San Miguel, Manila, Metro Manila

Year of Establishment: 1750

Entry Fee: No

Casa Manila

Step back into the late Spanish colonial period by visiting Casa Manila, a living museum, which is located in the Intramuros district of Manila. This building showcases the lifestyle of a wealthy Filipino family during the late Spanish colonial period, characterised by its ambience, furnishings, and architecture. This building serves as a cultural and historical delineation of that period. Some of the things that will grab your attention are the spacious rooms and grand entrance, focusing on ventilation and natural light.

Location: Intramuros, Manila

Year of Establishment: 1571

Entry Fee: Yes

Fort Pilar Shrine

Situated in Zamboanga City, Fort Pilar Shrine boasts both religious and historical significance. Catholic devotees are seen to visit this place because of its spiritual significance, as it serves as a place for prayer and pilgrimage. Similarly, tourists also get attracted to this site because of the stunning architecture and rich history. You will find a blend of local and Spanish colonial architectural styles, which was built as a military defence, but is now dedicated to the city's patroness.

Location: Zamboanga City

Year of Establishment: 1635

Entry Fee: No

San Agustin Church of Paoay

Get captivated by the stunning architecture of San Agustin Church of Paoay, also known as the Paoay Church. It is also one of the oldest churches in the country, along with being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This building is also known for its unique Baroque architecture and its massive buttresses. Each of these buttresses has been designed to withstand earthquakes, making it an example of Earthquake baroque.

Location: Paoay, Ilocos Norte

Year of Establishment: 1694

Entry Fee: No

Cagsawa Ruins

Explore the remnants of the 16th-century church at the Cagsawa ruins, offering both historical significance and a scenic backdrop of the active Mayon volcano. Tourists visit this place to see the ruins of the Cagsawa church, which was built back in the year 1587 and was destroyed in the year 1814 by the eruption of the Mayon Volcano. The remains of the bell tower serve as a testament to both cultural heritage and the power of nature.

Location: Daraga, Albay

Year of Establishment: 1587

Entry Fee: Yes

National Museum of Fine Arts

Another point of interest that attracts tourists is the National Museum of Fine Arts, which was originally the Old Legislative Building, which is renowned for its amazing neoclassical architecture. At present, it is the repository of Filipino art, including prints, paintings and sculptures. There are 29 galleries present in the building featuring works of National artists, contemporary printmakers, sculptors and painters. The building serves as a visual reminder of the rich past of the nation.

Location: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila

Year of Establishment: 1901

Entry Fee: No

Lacson Ruins

Lacson Ruins, popularly called "The Ruins", is a grand but ruined mansion of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, who was a sugar baron. The building has gained fame for its Italianate and Filipino-Spanish architectural styles, accompanied by the romantic history connected to it. Despite being partially destroyed during World War II, the building serves as a testament to the love of the baron for his wife.

Location: Bacolod, Negros Occidental

Year of Establishment: 1920

Entry Fee: Yes

El Hogar Filipino Building

El Hogar Filipino Building, also called El Hogar, is located in Manila, which boasts Beaux-Arts architecture, which also blends Renaissance and Neoclassical styles. This building has witnessed a number of events over the past, surviving World War II and many earthquakes. The building is a four-story building made of reinforced concrete, showcasing intricate details. This building was also one of the earliest skyscrapers in the city.

Location: Binondo, Manila

Year of Establishment: 1914

Entry Fee: No

Cebu Taoist Temple

Seeking solace amidst nature, visit the Cebu Taoist temple, which is a unique Chinese-inspired architecture, with a serene atmosphere, along with the center of worship of Taoism. You will get mesmerised by the colourful pagodas, statues and intricate carvings. One can also go there for meditation and gain spiritual reflection. This temple is also the landmark that reflects their practices and beliefs of Taoism. The temple also features a wishing well along with a replica of the Great Wall of China.

Location: Cebu City, Cebu

Year of Establishment: 1972

Entry Fee: No

Pila Historic Town Center

Take a tour of the well-preserved ancestral house at Pila Historic Town Center. The archaeological evidence of this building dates back to the 1st century AD. One gets to witness American and Spanish era architecture. This building also holds historical significance and is also the second printing press. Learn about the history while exploring the well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture.

Location: Pila, Laguna

Year of Establishment: 2000

Entry Fee: No

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, also called Burgos Lighthouse, is a prominent example of Spanish colonial architecture and is one of the famous historical sites in the Philippines. The architectural importance shows the use of materials of ironwork and red brick. It has played a navigational aid and historical role during the Spanish colonial period. Located by the rocky northern coast, which also offers stunning views and is considered a National Historical Landmark.

Location: Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Year of Establishment: 1892

Entry Fee: No

Balay Negrense

Appreciate the 19th-century Filipino-Spanish colonial architecture that highlights the "bahay na bato" style at Balay Negrense. A blend of indigenous Filipino and Spanish colonial design elements is seen in the building. At present, this building serves as a museum, by preserving teh lifestyle and cultural heritage of Negros Occidental. Starting from antique furniture to artefacts, offers a glimpse into the past history and culture.

Location: Silay, Negros Occidental

Year of Establishment: 1901

Entry Fee: Yes

Molo Mansion

Another famous historical landmark in the Philippines is Molo Mansion, a popular historical building, also known as Yusay-Consing Mansion, which is well-preserved with Art Deco and neoclassical architectural design. You get to witness decorative carvings, balustrades and high ceilings. It is a popular spot for capturing photographs with Molo Plaza and the Church in the backdrop.

Location: Molo, Iloilo City, Iloilo

Year of Establishment: 1926

Entry Fee: No

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season, which prevails between November and April. During this season, the weather remains cooler, and the chances of facing rain showers are lower. This allows you to explore different parts of the nation and learn about the great history of each destination.

Guided Tours and Fees

There are a number of historic places, some of which ask you to pay an entry fee, while some don't. If you are well acquainted with the destination, then you can wander around the place. However, if you want to learn about the different stories and events that took place in the past, you must hire a guide, who will offer you a guided tour.

Responsible and Respectful Tourism

Visitors travelling to these historic sites are expected to exercise caution and follow the rules to help preserve the beauty of these sites. Avoid touching or climbing ancient statues or structures, throwing away plastic or paper wrappers, or making excessive noise. You can also support the local communities by making purchases of locally sourced products.