Philippines sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

The Philippine islands are well known as a popular beach resort, but the archipelago can be proud not only of its beautiful nature because this country is home to many interesting historical landmarks and amazing old buildings. Fort Pilar, which is located in Zamboanga City, has become a signature sight of the country. The fort was built in the beginning of the seventeenth century in order to protect the city from attacks of pirates and other hostile tribes. The complex is surrounded by a tall stone wall, there are also traces of a ditch on perimeter. The fort has been transformed into a museum that currently exhibits a large collection of architectural findings. Don't forget to visit the chapel of Virgin Mary and the garden that is also located in Fort Pilar. This place is a favorite destination of rest not only for tourists but also for locals, who enjoy charming and cozy atmosphere of the fort. There are many wonderful parkways and benches, where one can seat, relax and enjoy birdsong.

Taal Volcano remains one of the most famous natural landmarks of the country. This volcano is also known as the smallest active volcano in the world. Its height is only 350 metres, and there is a lake in the spiracle. Travelers are welcome to climb up to its top and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the area.

The most famous religious landmark of the Philippines is located in the capital of the country, Manila. This is San Agustin Church, the building of which was finished in 1607. The church's arc is decorated with magnificent sculptures of lions, and its spacious niches are decorated with statues of saints. The magnificent ceiling made by famous Italian masters remains the biggest attraction of the church. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Orchid Gallery is one more famous attraction of the capital. This park is located right in the heart of the city. The gallery was founded not long ago - yet ten years ago this place was nothing but an ordinary parking lot. Nowadays, the park features numerous winding cozy roads, charming observation decks, bridges, flower beds and trees. There are also several miniature waterfalls, fountains and man-made lakes in the park. Beautiful fretted benches, sculptures and arbors - this magnificent place is really worth visiting. When you visit the park, don't forget to attend the pavilion of butterflies that was open by initiative of internationally famous company Nokia.

When you're done with Manila, it's time to move to another beautiful place - Cebu. The vicinity of this city is home to Taoist Temple, a beautiful Chinese monastery that was open in 1972. The building is located on the top of a hill, from which visitors will enjoy stunning panoramic looks of the coastline and neighbor islands. The monastery is quite unusual from an architectural point of view - it's made out of colorful stones and its facade is decorated with traditional Chinese dragons.

History and Entertainment

In the course of archeological researches, it was found out that the territory of the Philippine Islands had been populated by representatives of different ethnicities and cultures until the 5th century AD. In the 5th century, the islands were settled by the people of Southern China. In some written sources, there are references that the islands were regularly visited by Chinese merchants in the 8th century. The important point in the history of the archipelago was the first Arab visits in the 14th century.

The European discoverer of the islands was Ferdinand Magellan. His team was the first to board one of the islands in 1521. At that time, the islands were under Rajas. On the archipelago, there had been quite a self-contained internal governance system even before the Europeans’ arrival. The first Spanish settlements in the islands were formed in 1565. They were preceded by a series of bloody battles between colonizers and local residents.

The archipelago had been under Spain for almost 200 years. In 1762, as a result of the big battle, Manila was conquered by British troops. Spain managed to regain its rights in no time. Already at the end of the 19th century, as a result of the Spanish-American War, the archipelago came to the USA. The Philippines gained independence from the USA in 1946.

At present, besides luxurious beaches and tropical landscapes, the Philippine Islands are notable for their upscale dive sites. There are over 7 000 sites on the archipelago. In addition, the islands are perfect for surfing and other sports. Divers come here from all over the world to admire rare corals, exotic sea dwellers and beautiful shells. The most favorite place of divers is Manila. It will be also interesting for them to visit Mindoro.

Those who prefer surfing visit the island of Catanduanes. Its main attraction is the Puranan Beach that is famous for constant strong waves. The coast of La Union is very popular with beginners. Professionals will certainly see the true value of the beach of Balabog. For many years, it has been a place where international surfing competitions are regularly held. In the Philippine Islands, you can combine beach recreation with admiring historical and cultural attractions.