What image comes to mind when you hear the name ‘Makati‘? Perhaps it’s an avenue chockfull of glass skyscrapers. Or perhaps it’s a world-class mall buzzing with shoppers. Or maybe it’s the tree-lined parks where joggers do their after-office exercise.
Yes, all of the above rings true, but did you know Makati is also home to the most beautiful churches in the country, with most of them even designed by acclaimed artists and five-star architectural firms?
If you’re planning on doing a Visita Iglesia this Maundy Thursday and Good Friday without leaving the city, then you’re in luck, beloved Makatizen! We here at Make It Makati compiled a list of seven gorgeous churches for you to do the Stations of the Cross at, or if you’re not the pious type, for you to simply marvel at.
No need to fill your car with a full tank’s worth of gas and pay exorbitant tollway fees! Stay in the city and explore its heavenly churches this Holy Week.
Where In Makati: Ayala Center, Legazpi Village
Standing under the leafy canopies of Greenbelt is Sto. Niño de Paz Chapel, or Greenbelt Chapel to most Makatizens. Did you know that the structure was designed by Willie Fernandez and then enhanced by Jess Dizon, who rendered the circular pattern of the building. Renowned glass sculptor, Ramon Orlina, fabricated the ceiling, tabernacle, altar, sacristy, cross at the entrance and the God the Father image on the dome. There’s even a garden, a lagoon, and lots of sculptures in the area worthy of a snapshot or two.
Where In Makati: A. Arnaiz Ave. ( Pasay Rd. ) cor. Amorsolo St.
On the end corner of Arnaiz Avenue, just before the Skyway entry, sits St. John Bosco Parish Church, which is probably one of the distinguishable churches in the city. It was designed by Jose Maria Zaragoza, one of the most celebrated architects of the Seventies. The structure is known for its huge shell dome structure and its suspended cross.
Where In Makati: 62 Constellation, Bel-Air II
In 1968, National Artist Leandro Locsin designed this futuristic, tent-inspired church that you can find in the pockets of Bel-Air. The architectural flourishes are stunning, from the x-shaped cross to the butterfly-shaped floor plan. Another National Artist, Vicente Manansala, designed church’s giant chandelier.
Where In Makati: 3117 McKinley Rd, Forbes Park
You can’t miss this. It’s a crown jewel that could be found along McKinley Road. Its Baroque architectural style reminds one of similarly designed Catholic churches in Europe. National Artist Fernando Amorsolo was commissioned to create its hand-painted murals. And here’s a nugget of Makati history for you: The church stands on the once-idle grassland that was donated by Joseph McMicking of Ayala Corporation, the pioneer behind the rise of Makati as the country’s premier financial district that it is today.
Where In Makati: 5539 D.M. Rivera, Makati
Not everything in Makati is new. Have you been to this church in Poblacion? This one here is one of the oldest churches in Manila, founded in 1620 and it’s so steeped in history! So much so that it’s been declared a heritage site by the government. See it in all its Baroque glory this Good Friday.
Where In Makati: 7440 Bernardino St., Guadalupe Viejo
Known to most as Guadalupe Church, this structure is one of the oldest and longest-standing in our fair city, as it has survived countless earthquakes, fires and the ravages of war. This Church broke ground in 1601 and was completed in 1630. A must-visit for all Makati history buffs.
Where In Makati: Humabon St., Magallanes Village
Yes, at first glance, it looks more like a futuristic building than a church. It’s the one that catches your attention as you pass by the Skyway. Fondly known as the Magallanes Church to its devotees, this amazing structure was created by National Artist Leandro Locsin in 1968.
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Which Makati church are you planning to visit this Holy Week? Tag us in your Instagram snaps #MakeItMakati.
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