Fort Santiago

The Spanish explorer and governor of the Philippines, Miguel López de Legazpi, constructed the fortified structure known as Fort Santiago in 1571. Intramuros, the walled city of Manila, is the site of the defending castle. Considered to be among Manila's most significant historical sites, the Fort holds a special place in Philippine memory. During the times of the Spanish Empire and World War II, many people were killed inside its prisons. José Rizal, one of the Philippine national heroes, was imprisoned here before his execution in 1896. Fort Santiago has been designated as a National Shrine and National Monument since 1951 and a National Cultural Treasure since 2014. How to explore Fort Santiago?

 - The wooden relief of the Fort's patron, Santiago Matamoros, may be seen above the arms of Castile and Leon above the entrance gate of Fort Santiago. - Military review, practice, and parades have always occurred on Plaza Moriones in this Fort. In the case of a siege or an attack from outside, this clearing was crucial to the defense of Fort Santiago. - The Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier was fortified in 1773 by the Crescent-shaped Reducto de San Francisco Javier construction in the Fort. As part of the comprehensive plan to strengthen Manila's defenses after the British siege was lifted during the Seven - - Years' War, construction of this section began shortly after the end of the conflict. - The Chambers, originally constructed in 1663 as part of Fort Santiago's maritime defense, have undergone adaptive reuse to house the Intramuros Visitor Center, cafes, gift shops, and public restrooms. - The Intramuros Administration was constructed in Guadalupe Chapel inside the San Francisco Javier Reducto in 1981. It was built in honor of the Lady of Guadalupe utilizing time-honored techniques. - In memory of those tortured and imprisoned by the Japanese at Fort Santiago during World War II, a memorial wall and plaque have been erected and are known as the Martyr's Wall. - Moat and Bridge is a man-made waterway linking the Pasig River and Manila Bay, making Fort Santiago a powerful fortress island. - The Baluarte de San Miguel is a defensive rampart constructed to protect Fort Santiago from assault from the river and the land.

  • imageDuration Required
    4 hours

Address of Fort Santiago

Intramuros, Manila, Luzon 1002 Philippines

Opening & Closing time of Fort Santiago

  • Monday
    08:00-20:00
  • Tuesday
    08:00-20:00
  • Wednesday
    08:00-20:00
  • Thursday
    08:00-20:00
  • Friday
    08:00-20:00
  • Saturday
    08:00-20:00
  • Sunday
    08:00-20:00

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