7 Churches to Explore in Western Visayas

Jaro Cathedral, formally known as Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Jaro. It is located in the district of Jaro in Iloilo City, Iloilo, on the island of Panay in the Philippines. It was placed under the patronage of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary. It is one of the famous pilgrimage centers in this area.

Miagao Church, also known as the Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Parish Church was Built-in 1786. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Iloilo. More than a place of worship, it also served as a fortress. Hence, it is called the Baroque fortress church. It was designed with the baroque features with touches of Chinese and Filipino style imposing designs, ornaments and motifs, making it a one of a kind church. Its old structure, history, and its UNESCO World Heritage mark make it a treasu

Molo Church is a famous Spanish-colonial church and heritage site in Molo District. It is known for the prominent red spires that crown its tall bell towers and as “the feminist church” because of the all-women ensemble of saints represented in 16 statues perched on the aisle pillars. Built-in neogothic style, the church is one of the Iloilo City’s most familiar landmarks and top tourist attractions.

Famously called Bacolod Cathedral, the San Sebastian Cathedral is the most famous religious and historical landmark in the province of Bacolod. It was first built as a little chapel made of wood in the early 19th century. That time, the church only had one small bell. the church was reconstructed in 1882 into a bigger structure made of coral stones from Guimaras and hardwood from Palawan. It was one of the famous pilgrimage centres in this area.

The Church of Sta Barbara, completed in 1878 after almost 30 years of construction, is made of adobe, corals, and red bricks. The architecture is chiefly Romanesque with its prominence of arcading or use of arches supported by pillars, arched windows, and its Latin cross floor plan. The church also is an excellent example of a Filipino baroque colonial style. Daily a lot of tourists visit this place every day.

A beautiful church which was located in the heart of the Roxas city which has a giant statue of Jesus as the centre of attraction. This 132 foot height statue is the tallest one in the Philippines. This place is now one of the famous pilgrimage centres in this area.

A roman catholic church which was located in the heart of the NEgros Occidental. This church has a lot of history to say and It is considered as the first example of modern sacred architecture in the Philippines. It is dedicated to St. Joseph the Worker. The church is also known for its modern altar painting of the so-called "Angry Christ" painted in vivid colors by Alfonso Ossorio, the Filipino-American abstract expressionist artist.