The walled city is that one huge monument that can bear testimony to the country’s history as a Spanish governed colony. The Intramuros, named aptly as the ‘city within the walls’ was the capital of the Spanish governed Philippine islands and is a city within a city with massive rocky walls encircling it, fortifying it from possible intrusion.
Built in 1571 by one Miguel Lopez de Lagaspi, the Intramuros was constructed in 1571. It is a fortress city with a huge 6 metre high wall included in the three mile long stony fortification that protects an area of 160 acres. It was indeed attacked by several invasive armies without success although it suffered serious injuries and damage during the second World War. Since then, most of the city including its famous old churches were reconstructed and rebuilt. However, the Intramuros has not grown up and matured with the rest of the island. It seems as if its high arrogant stony exteriors seem to despise modernization and continue to take pride in its age, its history and its very ruined state. The result undoubtedly is picturesque.
The stone walls are covered with ivy, moss and weeds and a greenish sheen shines from the walls which were once stark black. Within the city lies the Manila cathedral with vast arches and lofty posts, as well as the grand San Augustin Church that is magnificent in its timeless splendour with high ceilings and altars. Intramuros is surrounded by a golf course while within the city a few intrusions of modern culture have sprung up in the form of fast food outlets.
Intramuros can be reached via train or even by bus. There are some excellent Manila apartments in the neighbourhood as well. Because the city is well structured since the olden days, it is not easy to get lost within it, even for a stranger. If needed it is always possible to find some appealing serviced accommodation Manila that is not too pricey and makes you feel like at home while being treated like royalty. Somerset Olympia Makati with its prime location can make you feel at home while providing great services in an attentive manner.
