MonteMaria Shrine: A Guide to Visiting the Popular Pilgrimage Site in Batangas City
MonteMaria Shrine is a spiritual and pilgrimage site positioned in Batangas City, Philippines. It’s home to the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary on the earth. The shrine is a well-liked destination for devotees and pilgrims from all around the world to pay their respects and offer prayers.
Apart from being a spiritual site, MonteMaria Shrine is a tourism and retirement village. It offers a serene and peaceful environment, perfect for many who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the town. Visitors can benefit from the stunning views of Batangas Bay and the encircling areas from the statement deck, which is positioned at the highest of the tower. The shrine also features various landmarks, including the 98.15 meters high Statue of Mary, the Mother of All Asia, dedicated to peace and unity of the peoples and countries of this a part of the world.
Overview of MonteMaria Shrine
MonteMaria Shrine, or Montemaria International Pilgrimage & Conference Center, is a township and Roman Catholic pilgrimage site in Batangas City, Philippines. It’s a well-liked destination for pilgrims and tourists, offering a surprising view of Batangas Bay and the encircling areas, including Tingloy, Verde Island, and parts of Oriental Mindoro.
The highlight of the shrine is the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary on the earth, standing at 98.15 meters high. The monument shrine is devoted to the Virgin Mary as an emblem of unity and peace in Asia and the world. It’s positioned at the middle of the eight-hectare pilgrimage site, Montemaria International Pilgrimage & Conference Center in Sitio Montemaria, Barangay Pagkilatan, Batangas City.
MonteMaria Shrine is a spiritual destination and a spot for leisure and reflection. The location features several landmarks, including the Holy Family Chapel, the Way of the Cross, the Rosary Garden, and the Meditation Garden. Visitors can even benefit from the scenic view of Batangas Bay from the statement deck.
The location is open to visitors all yr round, and admission is free. Nonetheless, visitors are encouraged to decorate modestly and observe proper decorum when visiting the shrine. MonteMaria Shrine is a must-visit destination for those searching for spiritual enlightenment, peace, and a wide ranging view of the environment.
History and Significance
The Montemaria International Pilgrimage & Conference Center, which houses the shrine, was founded by the Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation, a non-profit organization established by a Catholic priest. The inspiration goals to advertise unity, peace, and love amongst people of various faiths and cultures. The shrine is an emblem of this mission and serves as a reminder to all who visit that peace and unity are possible, even in a world of strife and division.
The shrine has gained recognition not only within the Philippines but additionally in other parts of the world. It has been visited by many dignitaries, including the Archbishop of Lipa and Batangas Governor Dodo Mandanas. The Archdiocese of Lipa has also recognized the shrine as a spot of pilgrimage, and plenty of Catholics come here to supply prayers and seek blessings.
The statue of the Virgin Mary was built with the assistance of many volunteers and donors, and it’s a testament to the devotion and faith of the people of Batangas. The shrine has turn out to be a very important landmark in Calabarzon and has helped promote Batangas City as a pilgrimage destination. The Montemaria Shrine is a testament to the ability of religion and the enduring human spirit, and it would proceed to encourage generations to come back.
The Statue of the Mother of All Asia
The centerpiece of the Montemaria Shrine is the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, a big statue of Mary, the mother of Jesus. With a height of 98.15 meters or 322 feet, it’s the tallest statue of Mary on the earth. It also ranks no. 9 among the many world’s tallest statues. The statue is manufactured from steel and concrete and has a bronze finish.
The statue’s hands and face are manufactured from marble and were crafted in Italy. The statue depicts Mary standing on a globe, along with her arms outstretched and her hands open in a gesture of peace and welcome. The statue is visible from afar and might be seen from many parts of Batangas City.
The Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace is devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary as an emblem of unity and peace in Asia and the world. It’s a Marian statue that stands as an emblem of hope and faith for the people of Batangas and beyond. The statue is a well-liked pilgrimage site for each locals and tourists.
The statue’s construction began in 2010 and was accomplished in 2015. It was designed by a Filipino architect named Jose Ma. Zaragoza. The statue was built atop a hill and might be reached by climbing a steep staircase.
Interesting Facts about Montemaria Shrine
- It’s the World’s tallest statue of Mary, with a height of 98.15 meters or 322 feet measured from the bottom as much as the tip of the cross on top of her crown.
- It ranks no. 9 among the many world’s tallest statues.
- Its height is akin to a 33-storey constructing representing our lord Jesus’ life yr on earth.
- It is usually the one livable statue on the earth with a gross floor area of 12,000 square meters or 1.2 hectares, roughly.
- The crown has 12 stars that represent the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ.
- The development of the hands and face of Mary was commissioned to renowned sculptor and national artist the late ED CASTRILLO, who began working on the project in 2008.
- Construction of the Tower of Peace began in 2013 and was accomplished in 2021, just in time to have a good time the five hundredth yr of Christianization and globalization of the Philippines.
- There have been 4 other designs, and one other location was studied and regarded before the fifth and final design was approved and constructed in its present location.
- The monument has 12 foundations that represent the 12 tribes of Israel.
- An individual has to climb 420 steps from the bottom level to succeed in the crown, but that is that if the person opts not to make use of any of the three elevators contained in the monument.
- The name “MOTHER OF ALL ASIA” was adapted from POPE BENEDICT XVI’S 27 May 2017 prayer To Our Lady of Sheshan, Mother of The Church in China and All Asia.
Comparisons to Other Popular Monuments
When it comes to size, MonteMaria Shrine is significantly taller than Christ the Redeemer and the Statue of Liberty. Nonetheless, size just isn’t the one factor determining a monument’s significance. Each monument uniquely impacts the individuals who visit them and the cultures they represent.
Montemaria Shrine Regular Mass Schedule
- 1st Fridays: 4:00PM
- Every eighth Day of the Month: 9:00AM
- Saturdays: 8:00AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 12:15PM and three:30PM
- Sundays: 7:00AM, 8:00AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 12:15PM, and three:30PM
Facilities and Attractions
Montemaria Shrine provides many facilities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From chapels to restaurants, there’s something for everybody.
One among the most important attractions at Montemaria Shrine is the Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary on the earth. Visitors can climb to the statement deck for a wide ranging view of Batangas Bay and the encircling areas, including Tingloy and Verde Island.
The Santo Niño Chapel is one other popular attraction, featuring an attractive altar and stained glass windows. It’s a peaceful and serene place to hope and reflect.
For those searching for a retreat, Montemaria Shrine offers retreat facilities for people and groups. The facilities include air-conditioned rooms, a conference room, and a dining hall.
The Cenacle Restaurant & Event Center is a terrific place to enjoy meals with family and friends. The restaurant serves various Filipino and international dishes and might accommodate large groups for events and celebrations.
The Event Center is a flexible space that might be used for conferences, seminars, and other events. It features state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and might accommodate as much as 1,500 guests.
The souvenir shop offers a wide range of religious items and souvenirs for visitors to take home as a reminder of their pilgrimage to Montemaria Shrine.
The Auditorium is one other venue for events and performances, with a seating capability of as much as 1,000 guests.
The Reception Hall is a spacious and chic venue for weddings, debuts, and other celebrations. It contains a grand staircase, a stage, and a bridal room.
The View Deck is a well-liked spot for taking photos and having fun with the scenery. It offers a panoramic view of Batangas Bay and the encircling areas.
The Gate of the Archangels is a striking entrance to Montemaria Shrine, featuring statues of the archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
The Way of the Cross is a series of life-size statues depicting the Passion of Christ. It’s a solemn and moving experience for pilgrims.
Visiting the Shrine
The shrine is accessible by automobile or public transport. Visitors from Manila can take a Buendia Bus Terminal or DLTB Bus Terminal to Batangas Grand Terminal. From there, they will take a jeepney or tricycle to the shrine. The trip can take around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.
Is there an entrance fee?
There is completely no entrance fee. You might visit the shrine totally free!
The shrine is peaceful and serene, with beautiful gardens and a chapel accommodating as much as 500 people. Visitors can even climb to the statement deck for a panoramic view of the encircling areas.
Nearby Amenities and Attractions
MonteMaria Shrine is positioned in Batangas City which offers a wide range of amenities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Listed below are some nearby places to envision out:
SM Batangas
For those in search of some shopping or entertainment options, SM Batangas is a well-liked mall positioned just 20 minutes away from MonteMaria Shrine. This mall contains a number of stores, restaurants, and a cinema.
Ilijan
Ilijan is a close-by town that is thought for its natural beauty and scenic views. Visitors can take a bus or automobile to Ilijan and luxuriate in the luxurious greenery and stunning landscapes.
Restaurants
There are several restaurants positioned near MonteMaria Shrine that provide a wide range of cuisines. From local Filipino dishes to international cuisine, visitors can find something to suit their taste buds.
Grand Terminal
The Batangas Grand Terminal is positioned just half-hour away from MonteMaria Shrine and offers transportation options to other destinations within the Philippines. Visitors can take a bus from the terminal to nearby towns or cities.
Beaches
Batangas is thought for its beautiful beaches, and visitors to MonteMaria Shrine can take a brief drive to nearby beaches comparable to Punta Santa Cruz. These beaches offer a wide range of water activities, comparable to swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Batangas Bay
Batangas Bay is a picturesque bay just a number of minutes from MonteMaria Shrine. Visitors can soak up the stunning views of the bay and luxuriate in a soothing day by the water.
Accommodation
Several accommodation options can be found for those trying to stay overnight near MonteMaria Shrine. From budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, visitors can discover a place to remain that suits their needs and budget.
Events and Ceremonies
MonteMaria Shrine is a spiritual site and a well-liked venue for various events and ceremonies. The stunning architecture and serene atmosphere make it a super location for weddings, retreats, and other gatherings.
Those focused on holding a marriage ceremony at MonteMaria Shrine offer different packages, including access to the church, altar decorations, sound system, and other amenities. The Shrine also has a reception hall accommodating as much as 300 guests.
Along with weddings, MonteMaria Shrine holds regular mass schedules for those wanting to attend a spiritual service. The Shrine offers multiple mass schedules every Saturday and Sunday and special mass schedules on the primary Friday of the month and the eighth day of the month. Visitors can check the official website for the newest mass schedules.
For those in search of a spiritual retreat, MonteMaria Shrine offers a peaceful and tranquil environment perfect for introspection and reflection. The Shrine has a retreat house that may accommodate as much as 50 people and is supplied with comfortable rooms, a chapel, and a dining area.
Online Presence
MonteMaria Shrine has a powerful online presence, making it easy for devotees and pilgrims to remain connected and updated with the newest news and events.
The official website of MonteMaria Shrine is montemaria.com.ph. The web site provides information in regards to the shrine, including its history, facilities, and services. Visitors can even access the newest news and events and knowledge about membership and donations. The web site is well-designed, user-friendly, and straightforward to navigate.
MonteMaria Shrine also has an lively Facebook page, which might be accessed at facebook.com/montemariashrine. The page has over 200,000 followers and provides regular updates in regards to the shrine’s activities, events, and services. Devotees and pilgrims can even use the page to attach with other followers and share their experiences.
Along with Facebook, MonteMaria Shrine has an Instagram account, which might be accessed at instagram.com/montemariashrine. The account has over 10,000 followers and provides a visible glimpse into the shrine’s beauty and serenity. Visitors can see photos of the shrine’s facilities, its natural surroundings, and breathtaking views.
Future Developments
MonteMaria Shrine is a developing township and pilgrimage site attracting visitors from around the globe. With the success of the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the shrine has plans for further development to boost the visitor’s experience.
Abacore Capital Holdings, Inc. and MonteMaria Asia Pilgrims, Inc. have partnered with Fluvion Real Estate Development, Inc. to create a joint-venture company that may oversee the development of recent facilities on the shrine. The project will include the development of a recent church, a retreat center, and a meditation garden.
The brand new church may have a bigger floor area to accommodate the increasing number of holiday makers. It’s going to even have modern facilities to cater to the needs of the pilgrims. The retreat center will provide a peaceful and serene environment for many who wish to deepen their faith and spirituality.
MonteMaria Shrine can also be planning to develop a residential subdivision for retirees who wish to live in a peaceful and spiritual community. The subdivision may have a low to medium-density residential development, offering lots starting from 240 to 320 sqm.
The longer term developments at MonteMaria Shrine are expected to draw more visitors and supply a greater experience for pilgrims. The shrine’s proximity to grease refineries and power plants has made it a super location for religious tourism. With the brand new developments, MonteMaria Shrine is poised to turn out to be a serious pilgrimage site within the Philippines.
Continuously Asked Questions
What’s the history of Monte Maria Shrine Batangas?
In 2006, Father Fernando Suarez, a Roman Catholic priest, envisioned making a pilgrimage site after meeting local politician Hermilando Mandanas. Mandanas’ company, Abacore Capital Holdings, Inc., generously donated five hectares of land in Barangay Pagkilatan, and the project, which was to be called Montemaria, was set in motion. The project was well underway by 2009 when the Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation raised P200 million to fund the enterprise. Nonetheless, in 2010, Father Suarez was offered an even bigger site in Cavite by San Miguel Corporation (SMC), and the project was placed on hold. Despite the challenges of fulfilling the conditions of the donation agreement with SMC, the pilgrimage site in Cavite was operational until 2014. Hermilando Mandanas was determined to maintain the Montemaria project alive and arrange the Montemaria Asia Pilgrims Inc. (MAPI) to administer the event. The Montemaria property was to be donated to MAPI, but plans were canceled, and the land was as an alternative donated to the Archdiocese of Lipa.
Find out how to go to Monte Maria Shrine
To get to Monte Maria Shrine, visitors can take a bus or drive to Batangas City. From there, they will take a tricycle or a jeepney to Barangay Pagkilatan, where the shrine is positioned. The shrine is roughly 45 minutes away from Batangas City proper.
Is Monte Maria open tomorrow?
Monte Maria Shrine is open to visitors every single day, including tomorrow. Nonetheless, visitors are advised to envision the shrine’s official website or social media pages for any updates or changes within the schedule.
Monte Maria opening hours
The opening hours of Monte Maria Shrine are from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Visitors are advised to reach early within the morning to avoid the crowds and the warmth of the sun.
What’s Montemaria known for?
Montemaria is thought for its Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace, the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary on the earth. The shrine can also be known for its beautiful view of Batangas Bay and for being a peaceful and serene place for prayer and reflection.
What number of steps are there in Montemaria?
There are 300 steps resulting in the highest of the Mother of All Asia – Tower of Peace. Visitors who climb the steps shall be rewarded with a wide ranging view of Batangas Bay and the encircling areas.
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