Did you know that the tallest statue of Virgin Mary in the world is located here in the Philippines?

The Mary, Mother of All Asia Tower of Peace in Batangas stands 315 ft high -- taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York (305 ft) and Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Jenairo (125 ft).

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It is located in Montemaria, a center which according to its developers is an “icon and pilgrimage destination not only of the Philippines, but eventually of all Asia and the world.”

Construction began in 2014 and is said to be finished by 2021. But although not complete yet, it’s already a scene to behold!

From our home, it will take you less than an hour to get there. If you’re coming from Manila it’s around a two-hour trip to the end of STAR Tollway, and another 58 mins (25 km) to Montemaria.

Just a week ago, me and my boyfriend got a chance to visit Monte Maria with my parents and relatives from Australia who were having a tour. On our way, we passed by different petroleum refineries in Batangas. Since it’s along the edge of the island, there’s a lot of beaches around the area. (You can have them as your sidetrip).

Once we arrived, we realized that the Statue of Mary was not the only attraction in Montemaria. There’s a Meditation Ground, Rosary Trek, Way of the Cross and a beautiful Sto. Niño Chapel. The Tower of Peace itself has a view deck, galleria chapels, memorial vaults, conference rooms, retreat facilities, reception hall and auditorium inside! (Sorry guys, we didn’t had time to go inside the tower and take photos).

inside the Sto. Niño Chapel

At the lower part of the plateu, there is the La Pieta and the Mother of Love, Peace and Joy where pilgrims also come to pray.

La Pieta

Mother of Love, Peace and Joy

You’re probably wondering.. what’s that rock doing in the center?

Some people call it the miracle stone because it cannot be moved even by heavy equipment (sometimes breaking their chains in the attempt) and is said to have healed thousands of people of different illness. Pilgrims make wishes and leave coins here.

The whole area is overlooking the Verde Island passage. So if you happen to have a trip to Verde Island or Puerto Galera, you can clearly see the Mary, Mother of All Asia Tower of Peace. The location also gave us a great background for a photoshoot.

My cheesy parents, celebrating their 24th Wedding Anniversary that day.