Malate Church: Our Lady of Remedies Parish in Manila

Malate Church: History and Architecture

Malate Church, also often known as Our Lady of Remedies Parish, is a historic church within the Malate district in Manila, Philippines. The church was first inbuilt 1588 and has undergone several reconstructions as a consequence of natural disasters and war. The present structure, which features Mexican Baroque-style architecture, was accomplished in 1864.

The church is devoted to the patroness of childbirth, Our Lady of Remedies (Nuestra Senora de Remedios), and is understood for its beautiful altar featuring a Virgin Mary statue brought from Spain in 1624. The church can also be known for its religious festivals and events, including the Harana Kay Maria, a serenade to the Virgin Mary, held every November 19. The church is a preferred destination for each locals and tourists who wish to witness the wealthy history and non secular significance of the Malate Church.

History of Malate Church

Malate Church was originally inbuilt 1588 by the Augustinians as a friar constructing and was dedicated to Nuestra Señora de los Remedios. The church is a Baroque-style church overlooking Plaza Rajah Sulayman and Manila Bay. The statue of Our Lady of Remedies, which was brought over from Spain in 1624, still stands on the altar to today.

Spanish Era

The Malate Church was a middle for religious activities and evangelization in the course of the Spanish Era. It was also a refuge for the sick and the poor. The church underwent several renovations and expansions, essentially the most significant one occurring within the 1860s, giving it its current Baroque Neo-Mudejar style.

British Occupation of Manila

In 1762, when the British occupied Manila, they seized the church and made it their headquarters, inflicting serious damage on the structure. Unfortunately, no records remain of who restored the constructing after the British had left. Tragically, a typhoon on 3 June 1868 destroyed the church, leaving it in ruins.

Throughout the Japanese occupation

Throughout the Japanese occupation, the church and convent were reduced to nothing greater than charred partitions, a cruel reminder of the atrocities that had occurred. Fathers Kelly, Henaghan, Monaghan, and Fallon, together with other parishioners, were taken away by the Japanese and never seen again. It was a devastating loss for the area people.

Post-World War II

The Columban Fathers launched into a monumental mission within the Nineteen Fifties to revive the church to its former glory. They diligently worked to reconstruct the roof, altar, dome, and transept, while the inside was painted and the outside bricks and stone were restored to their original color in 1978.

On 22 April 2023, the National Museum of the Philippines proudly declared the church an Vital Cultural Property, recognizing its immense historical significance and contribution to the nation’s cultural heritage.

Architectural Details

Baroque Style

Malate Church is a Mexican Baroque-style church that was accomplished in 1864. The church’s architecture is characterised by ornate and complicated details, resembling elaborate carvings and decorations. The Baroque style was popular within the seventeenth and 18th centuries and is understood for its grandeur and drama.

Retablo-Type Façade

Some of the striking features of Malate Church is its Retablo-type façade. The façade comprises three levels, the primary consisting of a series of arches and the second featuring a big central area of interest. The third level is topped by a triangular pediment and incorporates a statue of the Virgin Mary. The façade has intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various saints and cherubs.

Altar

The altar of Malate Church is a masterpiece of Baroque art. The altar is fabricated from wood and is adorned with gold leaf and complicated carvings. The altar incorporates a large central area of interest that houses a statue of the Virgin Mary. The area of interest is flanked by two smaller niches that house Saint Peter and Saint Paul statues. The altar also features paintings depicting scenes from Christ’s life.

Our Lady of Remedies

Our Lady of Remedies is the patroness of childbirth and can also be often known as Nuestra Senora de Remedios or Nuestra Senora de los Remedios. The statue of Our Lady of Remedies was brought over from Spain in 1624 and continues to face on the altar of the Malate Catholic Church to today.

Patroness of Childbirth

Because the patroness of childbirth, expectant moms often call Our Lady of Remedies to make sure a secure delivery. Many ladies also seek her intercession for fertility and conception. The devotion to Our Lady of Remedies is particularly strong within the Philippines, where she is taken into account a robust intercessor for moms and kids.

Nuestra Senora de Remedios

Our Lady of Remedies can also be often known as Nuestra Senora de Remedios, which translates to “Our Lady of Remedies.” This title refers to the numerous miracles attributed to her intercession, particularly in times of illness or danger. The faithful imagine Our Lady of Remedies can provide comfort and healing to those in need.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Vital Cultural Property

On 22 April 2023, the National Museum of the Philippines proudly declared the Malate Church, officially often known as Our Lady of Remedies Parish, an Vital Cultural Property – a recognition that celebrates its immense historical and cultural significance to the nation’s heritage.

The centuries-old complex, first inbuilt 1588 and houses the image of Our Lady of Remedies brought over from Spain in 1624, is now protected by law. Because of this the National Museum and other relevant government agencies must approve any modifications or renovations to the structure and any funding for its preservation and maintenance.

National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009

The National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 is a Philippine law that goals to guard and preserve the country’s cultural heritage. The law defines cultural heritage as “the totality of cultural property preserved and developed through time and passed on to posterity.” This includes tangible and intangible cultural heritage, resembling buildings, artifacts, traditions, and customs.

Under the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, the Malate Church is taken into account a cultural property protected by the state. The law mandates that any alteration or modification to the church have to be approved by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the National Museum of the Philippines.

The law also provides for making a Cultural Property Registry, where all essential cultural properties, including the Malate Church, are listed. This registry serves as a database and reference for cultural properties and helps preserve and protect them.

Location and Surroundings

Malate Church is in a major location, overlooking Plaza Rajah Sulayman and Manila Bay. The world surrounding the church is vibrant and vigorous, making it a perfect destination for tourists and locals alike.

Plaza Rajah Sulayman

Plaza Rajah Sulayman is a public park positioned in front of Malate Church. The park is known as after Rajah Sulayman, a Muslim chieftain who ruled Manila within the sixteenth century. The park is a preferred spot for locals to loosen up and revel in the gorgeous view of Manila Bay. The park can also be known for its colourful murals, depicting the Philippines’ history and culture.

Manila Bay

Manila Bay is a natural harbor positioned west of town of Manila. The bay is understood for its stunning sunsets and is a preferred destination for tourists and locals alike. The bay can also be home to several historical landmarks, including the Rizal Park, just a couple of kilometers from Malate Church.

Ermita

Ermita is a district positioned just south of Malate. The district is understood for its vibrant nightlife and is home to several bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Ermita has several historical landmarks, including the National Museum of the Philippines and the Manila Ocean Park.

Services and Activities

Malate Church Mass Schedule

Contact Information

Malate Church, also often known as Our Lady of Remedies Parish, is positioned at 2000 M.H. Del Pilar Street, Malate, Manila, Philippines. For inquiries, interested parties may contact the church through the next channels:

• Telephone Numbers: Interested parties may call the next numbers: 8400-5876 to 77 and 8523-2593. The church’s fax number is 8524-6866. The Remedios Training Center and Vicariate Health Clinic will be reached at 8523-3168.
• Email Addresses: Interested parties may send an email to ourladyofremedies@gmail.com or contact@malatecatholicchurch.org.
• Facebook Page: Malate Church has an official Facebook page called Our Lady of Remedies Parish – Malate. Interested parties may visit the page to get updates on church activities, mass schedules, and other announcements.

Malate Church is under the leadership of Fr. Leonito Distor, who has served because the parish priest since 2018. Fr. Distor is understood for his dedication to his ministry and efforts to advertise social justice and community development.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan has also expressed her support for the church and its initiatives. In a recent statement, she commended the church for its efforts to advertise the community’s welfare and contributions to town’s wealthy cultural heritage.

Ceaselessly Asked Questions

What’s the history of Malate Manila?

Malate Manila is a historic district in Manila, Philippines. It was once a thriving business and residential area in the course of the Spanish colonial period. It is understood for its wealthy history and cultural heritage. Malate Manila was also the location of several key events in the course of the Philippine Revolution against Spain.

What’s Malate Church known for?

Malate Church, also often known as Our Lady of Remedies Parish, is a historic church within the Malate district in Manila, Philippines. It is understood for its beautiful Mexican Baroque-style architecture and its historical significance. The church is devoted to the patroness of childbirth, Our Lady of Remedies (Nuestra Senora de Remedios).

How old is Malate Church?

Malate Church was first inbuilt 1588. Nonetheless, the present structure was inbuilt the 18th century after the unique church was destroyed by a typhoon. The church has undergone several renovations and restorations over time.

What are the Malate Church Mass schedules for 2023?

As of September 2023, the Malate Church Mass schedules are as follows:

• Monday to Saturday: 6:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 6:00 PM
• Sunday: 5:00 AM, 6:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM, and seven:30 PM

Please note that these schedules are subject to alter. It is suggested to examine the Malate Church website or contact the church office for the newest schedule information.

What are the Malate Church wedding rates for 2023?

The Malate Church wedding rates for 2023 vary depending on the package chosen. The essential package starts at Php 25,000 and includes the usage of the church for the marriage ceremony, the services of a marriage coordinator, and the usage of the sound system. Additional services resembling floral arrangements, photography, and videography will be added for a further fee. It is suggested to contact the Malate Church office for more information on wedding packages and rates.

What are the Malate Church office hours?

The Malate Church office is open from Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 AM to five:00 PM. The office is closed on Sundays and holidays. It is suggested to contact the Malate Church office to schedule an appointment or for any inquiries.

Manila Travel and Tour Packages

Avoid the trouble! Find the most effective places to remain in Manila and book your accommodation with Booking and Agoda!

Want more updates about recent package tours and tourist attractions in Manila that you would be able to add to your itinerary?

Like, Follow, and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest, and Team Out Of Town on YouTube for more Manila tourist spots.

Read: