Aside from the famed Callao Cave and Cape Egaño in Palaui Island, Cagayan province is also known for its centuries-old brick churches. So, on my 3rd and final day in Tuguegarao City, I visited the Metropolitan Cathedral of Tuguegarao or the Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao and considered as the biggest Spanish-built church in the entire Cagayan Valley Region.
The cathedral's facade is made of red bricks highlighted with white columns. It has a stunning five story bell tower, which is one of the highest I've seen so far.
As stated on the National Historical Institute's marker, it was built from 1761 to 1767 under the supervision of the Spanish Dominicans who came to evangelize Cagayan Valley. The Diocese of Tuguegarao was established by Pope Pius X on December 6, 1911, it suffered massive destruction in WWII and was again rebuilt by Msgr. Bishop Constance Jurgens.
It is said that a picture of the Cathedral is displayed at Rome Basilica and is considered as one of the most beautiful works of art in the Philippines.
Located at St. Peter's Cathedral Complex, Rizal Street, Tuguegarao City, it is another must-see destination when visiting the province of Cagayan.
This is part of my solo northern luzon adventure in Tuguegarao City and Peñablanca in Cagayan and in Tumauini and Cabagan in Isabela province that happened last November 5-7, 2011. Cagayan and Isabela are the 44th and 45th provinces on my list and this adventure is my 13th solo trip. Join me as I crossed a river and a bridge, explored a cave, visited churches, experienced local delicacies and walked through the streets of Tuguegarao City. | |
  | Tuguegarao City and Peñablanca
Tumauini and Cabagan
Maps By: Wikipedia |
I visited this church once in 2008... but I didn't have enough time to fully enjoy the moment because there was a wedding ceremony and that my companions were waiting for me at the van. I hope I can travel back to Cagayan.
ReplyDeleteay sayang naman... it's indeed huge noh? Thanks Jenn! :)
Deletethe interior of the church is indeed beautiful... it also has that wide look and feel to it... at least that is the sense I get by looking at the picture...
ReplyDeleteyeah, it's also huge inside... thanks Romelo... :0
DeleteWow! You might be interested to apply as a writer for my pr friend. I could give you his contact details if you want. He is looking for a provincial writer to Tuguegarao. Free hotel and food.
ReplyDeleteWow! thank you sir! send me an email po... :)
DeleteGanda talaga ng Pinas, I have this thing with old churches gandang ganda talaga ako, damang dama mo ang solemnity.
ReplyDeleteI am not a well traveled person, I am glad that through blogs like this I am able to see the places I havent been to...
oh yes... i also love to visit olde churches... so beautiful! thanks Cielo! :)
DeleteI always wondered what's to see in tugeguarao churches pala
ReplyDeletemadami pa po... hehehe! salamat po.. :)
DeleteImpressive structure. good job on documenting this church!
ReplyDeletenice blog... I've always wished that I could travel to places rural/urban eat exotic foods etc etc, if I was a guy I'd do the same as you, traveling place to place even if I'm traveling alone...
ReplyDeletebtw, I'm originally from Tuguegarao and I came across your blog, I miss that place so much!
The Tuguegarao Cathedral has just been restored to its 17th century looks after years of research. You might want to look into the church again. Its magnificent
ReplyDelete