Sacred Sites of Philippines
Philippines: Land of Faith and Devotion
The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country with a rich history reflected in its many pilgrimage sites. These sites offer a unique opportunity for spiritual reflection and connection.
Cebu
Basilica of Santo Nino
The Basilica of Santo Niño is a minor basilica that holds a revered image of the Child Jesus (Santo Niño). It is a major pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over the Philippines.
Luzon
Antipolo Cathedral
The Antipolo Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. It is a popular pilgrimage destination, especially during Holy Week.
Basilica Menor of Our Lady of Piat
The Basilica Menor of Our Lady of Piat is a minor basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is home to a venerated image of the Virgin Mary and is a popular pilgrimage destination.
Ermita Shrine, Manila
The Ermita Shrine in Manila houses a revered image of the Our Lady of Guidance and is a popular pilgrimage site.
Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, Manila
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in Manila is a replica of the famous grotto in France and is a pilgrimage site for Catholics.
Immaculate Conception Church of La Purisima, Bulacan
A historic church in Bulacan dedicated to the Immaculate Conception.
Malolos Cathedral, Bulacan
The Malolos Cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Malolos and is a historically significant religious site.
Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, Quiapo, Manila:
The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene houses a famous statue of Jesus Christ and is a major pilgrimage destination, especially during its annual procession.
Mount Banahaw, Quezon
Mount Banahaw is a dormant volcano that is considered sacred by many Filipinos. It is home to various religious sects and pilgrimage sites.
Mount Makiling
Mount Makiling is an inactive volcano that is a popular pilgrimage destination, especially during Holy Week.
Mount Pinatubo
Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano that is famous for its 1991 eruption. It is now a pilgrimage site for some due to its natural beauty and spiritual symbolism.
Mount Pulag
Mount Pulag is the highest peak on the island of Luzon and is a popular pilgrimage destination for hikers and adventurers seeking spiritual reflection.
National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, Manila
The National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help is a popular shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is known for its Wednesday novena services.
Our Lady of Manaoag, Pangasinan
The Shrine of Our Lady of Manaoag is a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is famous for its miraculous image of the Virgin Mary.
Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Naga City, Bicol
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia houses a beloved image of the Virgin Mary and is a popular pilgrimage destination, especially during the Peñafrancia Festival.
Regina Rosarii Statue
The Regina Rosarii Statue is a giant statue of the Virgin Mary found in Batangas. It is the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world.
Saint Catherine of Alexandria Parish, Our Lady of Namacpacan
Located in Luna, La Union, this parish is home to an image of the Virgin Mary said to be miraculous and attracts many pilgrims.
San Agustin Church, Paoay
The San Agustin Church in Paoay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a prime example of Baroque architecture.
Santa Clara Monastery, Quezon City, Manila
The Santa Clara Monastery is a cloistered monastery for nuns of the Order of Saint Clare.
Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, Baclaran
This shrine is connected to the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, also in Manila, and is known for its Wednesday novenas.
St John the Baptist Parish Church, Taytay, Rizal
A historic church located in Taytay, Rizal.
St. Jude Thaddeus Parish Church, Santa Lucia, Manila
This parish is known for its devotion to St. Jude Thaddeus.
Mindanao
Long Hua Temple, Davao City
The Long Hua Temple is a Buddhist temple that is one of the largest in the Philippines.
Mount Apo, Davao
Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines and is considered sacred by many indigenous groups.
Mount Kalatungan, Davao
A mountain range in Davao with significance to indigenous spirituality.
Mount Tagubud, Davao
A mountain located in Davao.
Our Lady of the Pillar, Zamboanga City, Davao
Dedicated to the Our Lady of the Pillar, this cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Zamboanga.
Palawan
Mount Mantalingajan:
Mount Mantalingajan is a mountain located on the island of Palawan. It holds ecological and potentially spiritual significance.
Note:
Remember to be respectful of Philippine cultural and religious traditions when visiting sacred sites.
Martin Gray is a cultural anthropologist, writer and photographer specializing in the study of pilgrimage traditions and sacred sites around the world. During a 40 year period he has visited more than 2000 pilgrimage places in 165 countries. The World Pilgrimage Guide at sacredsites.com is the most comprehensive source of information on this subject.