The "Little Rome" of Tarlac

It is undisputable that Rome is one of the greatest civilizations in the early human history. It has conquered several places, advanced engineering, expanded the school of thought, and a lot more. The remains of this empire can be seen on some parts of Europe.

As an art enthusiast, I have also noticed that its architecture was able to influence other cultures around the one, just take the Pantheon as an example. It has been replicated or modified by some infrastructures around the world. The structures remain to be of significance as people around the world flock over the place to discover sites such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

For today, I want to show you the Little Rome of Tarlac. You would see later on the photos below how the owner of this place was captivated by Rome that he made his own little city.

This Little Rome is located at Bamban, Tarlac. It is actually a resort called Goshen Resort. It is visited not just by tourists who loves to swim but also conduct pre-nuptial photoshoots.

This photo is particularly called Dambana ni Yahweh or Bell of God in English. As I observed, it resembles the Amphitheatrum Flavium building of Rome, Italy. It is quite massive so basically everyone in your family, friends, or even your entire class could fit in for a photoshoot.

How were we able to get here anyway?
We actually came from Dau, Pampanga so we decided to ride a jeepney that would take us to Bamban. After a ten to fifteen minute trip, we already arrived at a tricycle terminal. Since it was still holy week when we travelled, the place was near the terminal were filled with people.


If you are on a private vehicle, I suggest that would be better since the fare is a bit expensive. The short and uncomfortable ride would cost you up to $2 per trip. Meanwhile, since we were just travellers, we have no choice but to ride the tricycle. Medyo mausok po yung daan.

On the video below, you will have a glimpse of our motorcycle ride. I was seated next to my brother so it was a bit uncomfortable because he is a big person.

When we reached the place, we paid $1 for entrance fee as visitors. We were allowed to take numerous or unlimited photos as much as we want. We were also given access to the swimming pool, but were not allowed to swim. If you ever wonder how much would it cost, it is for $5.

We were accomodated then by three staff members. They gave us a pass and a cup of cold drink. It was tamarind rasperry and I swear it tasted so good. Thank you for the complimentary drink, guys!

The moment you enter the resort, it would really give you a feeling that you have travelled to Rome. There are some passages found on the Bible that describes about love. These words were taken from the Book of Corinthians. I suppose a wedding or a photoshoot wss recently held in the place.

I also heard from my mom that the owner id a Christian. I suppose the place was then set up in such manner for February Heart's Celebration.

This one here is a restaurant with old European style mixed with modern design. I was not able to check it out though since it was holy week and the restaurant was close. I suppose they serve fine dishes. I must go back here and try it -- oh including the swimming pool.

I tried to have a glimpse of how it looks inside and it looks cozy.

Beside the restaurant is a man that allows you to rent costumes of Roman soldiers. They are not really authentic (of course) but it looks so cool. You can rent it for Php50.00. You can choose between a spear or a sword as well.

On the right photo you could find me having a wacky selfie. My mom was just laughing as I kept on saying that the breast part looked so awkward.

Little Rome would not be Little Rome without these statues. Thede are actually not made out of marble but of gravel. Still they look great in person.

You can also observe the fine landscaping on the background. There are also chairs around so that you could sit down and enjoy the biew, and even chit chat with your friends.

If you are curious, there are actually other ammenities available for you and your family or friends to enjoy. You can check out this blog entry.

Thank you for reading. I hope you visit this wonderful place. I cannot say it is as perfect on the standards of others, but since it allows you to taste Rome in a tight budget, then that would be incredible. I hope you will have a great day ahead!

Hive account@gailbelga or Johanna Gail is a free-spirited freelance artist. She took up Bachelor of Arts in International Studies in one of the Ateneo universities in the Philippines. She is currently a candidate for Masters in Public Administrations. She volunteers in various non-profit/nongovernmental organization which aims for human rights through political education. She draws and writes about the country to provide awareness and promote the Philippines to foreign tourists.