Weeks ago, I shared my experienced in visiting Rizal or also known as Luneta Park where the Philippine national Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal was executed through the firing squad.
Also, a week ago, I visited one of the oldest cities, Intramuros which was built during the Spanish times. Now, let me take you to another historical place here in my country, Fort Santiago.
Since I started studying, not only once have I read and heard about this place as it was discussed in our history class. Why? This is where Dr. Jose Rizal was imprisoned for 56 days, from November 3 to December 29, 1896. (Source). He was accused of rebellion, sedition as he fights for the freedom of our country. Thus, he did not use force; instead, it was a silent battle as he expressed it through writing, literature, and arts that stirred Filipinos' patriotic feelings. (Source).
The desire to visit the place has been in me since then, but I couldn't in the past years as my colleagues are not into this place. They prefer visiting beaches most of the time. That one Saturday, I decided to travel alone to see a glimpse of Philippine History with my naked eye.
It was near twilight before I reached Fort Santiago, as I wandered around Intramuros earlier. As suggested by locals here, this was the best place to be the last.
A long queue of tourists lined up to pay for a ticket to get inside for $1.35. The Guardia Sibil (Security guard) dressed in blue uniform checked all in line and asked the number per group, trying his best to assist.
While standing in line, I saw these two carriages waiting for possible passengers that might want to avail of their service in touring around.
Finally, I passed the long lines, and the moment I stepped in, this is what I have seen;
Group of people resting on the ground maybe got tired from walking around, and at their back was the Rajah Sulayman Theatre. It was constructed as a military barrack and cuatro escuela a school for petty officers. Thus it was destroyed during the second world war, so the ruins were converted into an outdoor theatre in 1896.
On the other side, you could see this wall made of stone and bricks and the stairs going to the prison cell. This was a shortcut for the exit only. As I was trying to assess the area, I thought it would be hard to escape if you were detained here as there were at least two gates to pass. Not to mention, the cell was in an open space and could be easily monitored.
From here, you still need to have a few walks going to the main attraction, the Rizal Shrine where you can see everything related to him.
Thick walls surround the area, and inside, you can see the ruins of prison cells. It was not only for Dr. Rizal but along for others.
The last two photos were of the oldest building in Fort Santiago, built in 1593 by the Spaniards. It was declared as one of a historical place on February 25, 1973, due to the power of the Philippine president in honor of our national Hero.
Since the area was already ruined, there was a constructed building at the back, where you could glimpse what happened decades ago. Only the building was restored or built, but the memorabilia was back in those times.
There is no entrance fee, but you must fill up the information as a guest.
The moment to enter, you can see brief information about important events in his life.
Before going up to the second floor, at your left was the Court room.
In the next room, I was surprised to see an old clock, and honestly, I find it confusing to read the time; could you?
wall clock, Jerome & Co, USA, 1871
I also saw one of his usual outfits and this hat in the flesh. The other one is a box where it should be kept if not used.
And this kusinilya de alcohol (alcohol lamp) where he kept his last poem - Mi Ultimo Adios.
If you noticed, I don't know why the area was in dim light. The only reason I thought maybe it was because there was no electricity back then, so this is to give that vibe.
It was okay though, not until I almost screamed upon seeing these;
I thought there was someone inside, only to find out just a replica.
And so, I left the room and was excited to tour around. I don't know if it was only me, but I sometimes prefer going to this place. Could it be I am only aging? 🤣
pinmapple code:
[//]:# (!pinmapple 14.59407 lat 120.97034 long It was not only in the movie you could see a glimpse of history, why not try to visit one of those? The Fort Santigao, Intramuros Manila. d3scr)
Lead image was edited using Canva
All photos are mine other wise stated
Information's sources could be read at the wall around the area
Footer and divider credit to Sensiblecast