While I had already visited most of the old churches here in the Northern part of my countryside (so much to explore in the South), each visit left me in awe and a profound appreciation of the rich history and craftsmanship of the early Filipinos, however, I was taken aback to see another old church in the different side of the Philippines. It was like discovering another treasure chest of my country filled with stories and artistry!
My travel to the beautiful island of Negros has blessed me with the different beauties and pride of the island. On the second day of our travel, our travel guide brought us to one of the island's oldest churches, which has captivating artistic architecture and a story woven into it.
Nestling at the heart of the city, the old church was built near the convent building which is evidently old because of its structure and design. These buildings are the same as those pictures I saw in our history books in my student years. These are the types of structures that whisper tales of a bygone area. I couldn't wait to explore the church and be amazed by its structure and story.
So, when my eyes caught a glimpse of the Old Church of Negros, I was more than excited and enthralled to know the history and the echoes of early civilization since this church had been constructed. I’ve always believed that churches are a town's living testimonies and records. No one could imagine the ceremonies and events that a church had witnessed, it could be a death ceremony, a wedding, a christening, or even a simple gathering and church service from one generation to another.
So, in this blog, I’m bringing you with me to one of the oldest churches in the country, the century-old, magnificent San Sebastian Cathedral of Bacolod.
Let’s go! Taraa!
THE CENTURY OLD SAN SEBASTIAN CATHEDRAL OF BACOLOD, NEGROS , PHILIPPINES
The San Sebastian Cathedral of Bacolod which was built towards the latter part of the 19th century, holds the title of being the oldest colonial-era church in the entire diocese - a heritage church by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. Source
With so much history of the native people of Bacolod moving from the river and shorelines to the plains to save themselves from the Moro Raiders, they gathered and found a new land in the town where they found their new life. There were already churches made of light materials in the town at that time, but there were no concrete buildings or made of stones yet.
So, under the leadership of Fr, Julian in 1817, he began collecting stone blocks from the coral gardens in Guimaras using his own money to build the church. However, the construction was stopped when he passed away.
After long years, the construction was continued by another priest with the help of the prisoners. There was also a pair of towers being donated and a huge clock that served as the timekeeper of the people in the town.
There was even a pipe organ installed on the walls but was removed for another round of renovation! How I wish to witness one, this pipe organ reminds me of the famous Bamboo Organ of Las Pinas Church.
Architecture and design
True to what every tourist of the island says, the church is not just a place for worship but a building that showcases artistry.
As soon as I stood there and gazed at the facade of the building, my eyes were filled with amazement. The whole architecture speaks of age.
The walls that were made of stones and corals proudly wear a weathered coat. It has three grand door arcs and two magnificent bell towers. The columns of the arc doors are huge and I think boast a diameter of more than 2 feet.
The church features 7 windows in an arc shape which has stained glass on them, and the other three windows were grace with religious statues. The arc windows perfectly complemented the façade of the church.
Examining closely, one will surely be impressed by the materials being used in the construction of the church. Of the many hands who had helped with the construction of the church, it's amazing how they built such a wonderful piece. The file of stones and corals was neatly filed and flawless.
The brown, giant wooden door decorated with stars on the edges seemed to invite everyone to get inside and see the church's beautiful interior.
The church stood as a living testimony of the rich history of the town and how the people of Bacolod helped each other to have this century-old religious site of their town.
The interior
I excitedly went inside to check if the interior of this old church resembled those old churches in my hometown. Before I made a closer inspection, I uttered a prayer first for a safe ride and happy moments with my family.
The lengthy body of the church was what caught my attention first. The church is elongated in shape (than usual size of the church) and was adorned by a long plain white arc ceiling. It was simple and plain, with no paints, and no lively color, yet it looked magnificent of its gold accent. Moreover, the lean white pillars also added to the spacious and serene ambiance of the church.
The body of the church retains its original rocks and corals no matter if it has been through renovations in the past. Its series of giant wooden doors further adds to the unique structure of the church.
The entire ambiance of the church is silent and peaceful which would provide someone the silence and tranquility they needed. We stayed there for a moment of reflection and appreciation.
While Bacolod offers numerous beautiful tourist spots, a visit to the town’s old church comes highly recommended. One must take a stop at this historic and magnificent architecture.
Thank you so much for reading I hope you enjoyed it. I wish you all safe and well always.
Don't forget to 🤗😍😊 always.