Spanish Influence and Heritage to Philippines Architecture

This is the third article on my blog series about the Philippines in connection with the Filipino-American History Celebration for the Month of October.

Heritage buildings are special because they tell us about our history and culture. In both Spain and the Philippines, many beautiful structures showcase a blend of architectural styles influenced by their shared history.

From the 16th to the 19th century, Spain brought its unique architectural styles to the Philippines. A great example is the San Agustin Church in Manila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Baroque architecture.

You can also find the Bahay Na Bato, a traditional Filipino house that combines Spanish and local designs, featuring stone and wooden elements. This fusion of styles is known as Arquitectura mestiza, reflecting the blending of cultures.

In Spain, iconic buildings like the Alhambra in Granada and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona represent various architectural styles, showcasing Spain's rich cultural heritage.

Unfortunately, many heritage buildings have been lost due to war, natural disasters, and neglect. For instance, during World War II, numerous structures in the Philippines were destroyed, including important historical sites. In Spain, some buildings have suffered from urban development and the passage of time.

Both countries value their heritage buildings as symbols of identity. By preserving these sites, we ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn about our shared history.

Here are some photos from my second home,Boac, Marinduque, illustrating the Spanish architectural style influence in church building as well as in some heritage homes.

Note: I have received numerous positive comments from several non-Filipino readers of my blog. They informed me they learned a lot about the Philippines and encourage me to continue writings about Philippine history, culture and traditions and current news about the Philippines. I promised I will do it to the best of my ability. Thank you all for your encouraging comments.