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7 Must-Visit Churches in Batangas for Visita Iglesia 2024
Here are the best churches in Batangas to complete your church visitation this Holy Week
By: Kriszel T. Rago | March 09, 2024
Make your Visita Iglesia 2024 memorable and solemn at these churches in Batangas.
Images: City Tourism of Sto. Tomas, Batangas (L); Immaculate Conception Parish, Balayan, Batangas (R) Facebook pages
Holy Week is right around the corner. This also means that Visita Iglesia 2024, a widely observed Catholic tradition of visiting seven churches during the Lent season, is happening. Visita Iglesia is exciting in our country because of its abundance of churches everywhere, rich history, and magnificent architecture. Batangas, in particular, boast numerous majestic churches, making them ideal destinations for Visita Iglesia 2024.
Here are 7 must-see churches in Batangas to complete your seven church visitation on Holy Week.
1. National Shrine of St. Padre Pio
Location: San Pedro, Sto. Tomas, Batangas
Looking for an idyllic and peaceful retreat to connect with your inner self? Look no further than the National Centre for Padre Pio!
Image: City Tourism of Sto. Tomas, Batangas Facebook page
The National Shrine and Parish of Saint Padre Pio is a renowned pilgrimage destination in Santo Tomas, Batangas. It attracts devoted Catholics from across the Philippines seeking Saint Pio of Pietralcina's intercession for miracles and healing from God. The main church is characterized by its open-air dome design. This church in Batangas has smaller spots designated for prayer, where pilgrims can light candles or obtain blessed water.
2. San Sebastian Cathedral
Location: C.M. Recto Avenue, Lipa City, Batangas
The original San Sebastian church was a humble wooden structure on Taal Lake's tranquil shores.
Image: Archdiocese of Lipa Facebook page
The Metropolitan Cathedral of San Sebastian Archdiocese of Lipa is a prominent symbol of faith and dedication in Lipa City, Batangas. Since its establishment in 1910, it has served as the principal church of the Archdiocese of Lipa, showcasing a Neo-Renaissance architectural style in a cross-shaped layout.
This church in Batangas’ main hall is adorned with arches, complemented by a dome and octagonal bell tower, enhancing its grand appearance. Inside, a high altar featuring the image of Saint Sebastian dominates the central space with four smaller side altars. Despite suffering damage during World War II, the cathedral underwent reconstruction, resulting in its current seven-floor structure, making it an even more remarkable sight.
3. Minor Basilica of St. Martin of Tours
Location: St. Martin Street, Taal, Batangas
The Minor Basilica of Saint Martin of Tours is called the Taal Basilica.
Image: Mel Imbing Gruta Verdeflor
The Minor Basilica of Saint Martin of Tours in Taal, Batangas, Philippines, is an iconic religious landmark with significant historical and spiritual importance. This church in Batangas, dedicated to Saint Martin de Tours, features a stunning facade adorned with intricate details and embellishments, showcasing Baroque and Neoclassical architectural influences. Its grand interior boasts majestic columns, elaborate altars, and magnificent paintings, creating a captivating atmosphere for prayer and worship.
4. Immaculate Conception Parish
Location: Plaza Mabini Street, Balayan, Batangas
Immaculate Conception Parish is one of the oldest churches in Batangas.
Image: Immaculate Conception Parish, Balayan, Batangas Facebook page
In honor of the Immaculate Conception, the patroness of Balayan, Immaculate Conception Parish, should be on your list of churches in Batangas for Visitia Iglesia 2024. Constructed primarily from coral stone, the main church structure boasts a striking contrast to the brick bell tower and has a fortress-like appearance reflecting the distinctive baroque architectural style.
This church in Batangas greets visitors with a majestic retablo and ceilings adorned with intricate paintings depicting biblical scenes. This architectural marvel is a testament to the local community's devout faith and rich heritage.
5. Immaculate Conception Bauan
Location: Kapitan Ponso Street Poblacion II, Bauan, Batangas
The church of Bauan has undergone several relocations before finally settling near the picturesque shores of Batangas Bay.
Image: Immaculate Conception Bauan - Archdiocese of Lipa Facebook page
Since its inception in 1590, the Immaculate Conception Bauan has endured numerous relocations, destructions, and rebuildings before finding its permanent home in Bauan. This church in Batangas has a neo-classical design that exudes a sense of symmetry and brightness from the outside. This resilient structure stands as a testament to perseverance and faith, embodying the enduring spirit of its community.
6. Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Raphael the Archangel
Location: Barangay Poblacio 3, Calaca, Batangas
St. Raphael is the patron saint of Calaca, a town in Batangas
Image: Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Raphael the Archangel Facebook page
The Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Raphael the Archangel is a significant church in Batangas dedicated to St. Raphael, the archangel known as the healer. Established to honor His legacy, the shrine's architecture combines elements of traditional Filipino design with modern influences, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere for worshipers and visitors alike. This church in Bartangas’ serene surroundings provides a peaceful sanctuary for prayer and reflection, inviting individuals to connect with their faith and seek divine assistance from St. Raphael.
7. Transfiguration Chapel of Caleruega
Location: Caleruega, Brgy. Kaylaway, Nasugbu, Batangas
Experience the sheer beauty of nature from the vantage point of the exquisite church perched atop the highest hill.
Image: Caleruega Philippines Facebook page
The Transfiguration Chapel of Caleruega is a captivating spiritual sanctuary in the scenic hills of Nasugbu, Batangas. This church in Batangas is located within the Caleruega Retreat Center and is renowned for its picturesque setting and tranquil ambiance, making it a popular destination for Visita Iglesia 2024.
Inspired by the quaint charm of European countryside chapels, the Transfiguration Chapel features rustic stone walls, wooden beams, and a quaint bell tower. Its open-air design allows natural light to illuminate the interior, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for prayer and reflection.
Enhance the significance and solemnity of your Visita Iglesia 2024 by visiting these churches in Batangas. Immerse yourself in the rich history and spiritual ambiance they offer, creating lasting memories and reflection during your pilgrimage.
Visit Yoorekka for more exciting places to visit this Holy Week season!
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About Kriszel T. Rago
Kriszel is a writer, an aspiring multimedia journalist, and a strong-willed, pierced & inked modern-day kikay tita. As a former iskolar ng bayan–still one at heart, Kriszel is passionate about social issues and everything under the sun. She loves to read, watch documentaries, thriller-mystery series, and anime, cook for her loved ones, and play Valorant & Mobile Legends with friends. Kriszel dreams of being a multiple degree holder and traveling to every province in the Philippines.
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