During Visita Iglesia, many consider Rizal Province as a destination for faith tourism because of its list of century-old churches.
A visit to this province just an hour away from Manila not only takes you on a spiritual journey but also provides an enriching experience of the place’s culture and history.
If you are looking for churches to visit for this year’s Visita Iglesia in Rizal Province, here’s a list of old churches.
Antipolo Cathedral
The Antipolo Cathedral, also known as the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, is a revered Roman Catholic cathedral in Antipolo, Philippines.
It houses the venerated Black Madonna image of the Blessed Virgin Mary and draws millions of pilgrims annually. During the pilgrimage season from May to July, it stands as a beacon of faith and spirituality.
Despite facing destruction during World War II, the cathedral was reconstructed and completed in 1954 under the guidance of architect José L. de Ocampo. Recognized for its historical and cultural significance, it was declared the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in 1954.
In 2023, the Antipolo Cathedral achieved international recognition as an international shrine, following approval by the Holy See’s Dicastery for Evangelization.
This prestigious status, making it the first international shrine in the Philippines and the third in Asia, was solemnly declared on January 26, 2024.
Additionally, in a gesture of gratitude, Pope Francis bestowed the Golden Rose upon the shrine during a Thanksgiving Mass on February 26, 2024, affirming its esteemed status as a Marian church in the Philippines and Asia.
Address: P. Oliveros St., Antipolo City, 1870 Rizal
Boso-Boso Church in Antipolo
One of the most popular Visita Iglesia churches in Rizal is The Nuestra Señora de la Annunciata Parish Church, commonly referred to as Bosoboso Church or Boso-Boso Church. It was initially established as a mission church by the Franciscans in 1669 to serve the Dumagat people in the mountainous regions of Rizal province. It later came under the administration of the Jesuits in 1741 and then secular priests in 1768.
Despite enduring various challenges throughout its history, including damage from an earthquake in 1880 and subsequent abandonment due to a planned dam project in 1930, the church’s resilience prevails.
The Japanese Occupation further tested its endurance when much of the structure was destroyed, leaving only remnants of the original façade.
However, with the resettlement of the area, the Camillian Order took charge of the parish in 1986 and spearheaded the church’s reconstruction, which was completed in 1995.
While preserving the ruins of the façade, the restoration aimed to maintain the original building’s simplistic architectural style, symbolizing the enduring spirit of faith and community.
Address: Brgy. San Jose, Antipolo City, 1870 Rizal
Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Joseph in Baras
The Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Joseph, also recognized as Baras Church, houses the ancient and miraculous image of San Jose de Baras, also known as El Glorioso Patriarca Señor San José de Baras.
Esteemed as the oldest parish dedicated to Saint Joseph in the Southern Tagalog Region, its historical significance resonates deeply within believers. With a unique blend of fortress-style and barn-style Baroque architecture, the church has an unassuming façade.
It is adorned with balustrade trimming and chequerboard patterns, reflects the modest beauty characteristic of Franciscan mission churches from the 16th century.
Once you are inside, you’ll see exposed wooden trusses support the roofing, showing off the raw adobe bricks that form the structure.
The revered image of San Jose de Baras depicts the saint cradling the Christ Child with tenderness and devotion. Adorned in embroidered capes offered by devoted pilgrims, the image stands atop a cloud base, flanked by cherubs, radiating divine grace and tranquility.
The recent Diocesan Consecration to St. Joseph marked a significant moment in the church’s history, with two ex-voto medallions adorning the staff of the revered image.
Address: J.P. Rizal St., Barangay San Jose, Baras, Rizal
Saint Ildefonsus of Toledo Parish Church in Tanay
The Saint Ildefonsus of Toledo Parish Church, known as the Tanay Church, was initially built in 1773 and culminated in its completion after a decade in 1783. It was honored with the distinction of being declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts in 2001. With this status, it joins the ranks of only a few select churches in the country.
The architectural style of the church reflects elements of Baroque design, characterized by its triangular pediment and rounded belfry, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and artistic heritage of the region.
Among its prized possessions is a relic containing a piece of bone belonging to San Ildefonso, housed within a monstrance gifted by Felipe Pedraja in October 2006 from Zamora, Spain, where the body of the patron saint rests.
Internally, the church boasts a remarkable display of the 14 Stations of the Cross, widely regarded as one of the most exquisite in Asia.
These carvings exhibit distinct Malay features, showcasing the artistic prowess of native Tanay artisans. Drawing inspiration from indigenous culture, the depictions include unique elements such as the “Tambuli,” crafted from carabao, and the bolo, replacing the traditional Roman sword.
Address: M.H. del Pilar St., Tanay, Rizal
Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Mary Magdalene in Pililla
The Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Mary Magdalene, locally known as Pililla Church reflects the centuries of Roman Catholic heritage in the municipality of Pillila. It was constructed by Franciscans in 1583 under the patronage of Saint Mary Magdalene. Notably, on January 16, 1977, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines unveiled a historical marker commemorating the enduring legacy of St. Mary Magdalene Parish Church.
Elevating its status further, on July 22, 2018, the parish church was honored with the declaration as a diocesan shrine, signifying its importance within the Diocese.
The rich history of Pililia traces back to Spanish conquests in 1571 when the area, then named Pilang Munti, became integrated into the administration of Morong.
The arrival of Franciscan priests, led by Diego de Oropesa and Juan de Plasencia, in 1572 marked the beginning of religious development in Pilang Munti.
Despite facing adversities such as fires that ravaged the town and its church in 1632 and 1668, respectively, the faithful persisted in rebuilding and renovating the sacred site.
Today, the church, constructed predominantly of adobe like many others in Laguna, boasts a simple yet elegant façade and belfry, showcasing its charm.
Within its walls, a baptistery nestled at the base of the bell tower and a modest retablo housing the image of Mary Magdalene, serve as focal points for worship and reflection.
Address: R. Magsaysay St., Barangay Hulo, Pililla, Rizal
Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Aranzazu in San Mateo
The veneration of Our Lady of Aránzazu, also known as Nuestra Señora de Aránzazu or Birhen ng Bayan ng San Mateo, is renowned for its association with miraculous healings and protection from floods.
The image has become a symbol of hope and divine intervention for the faithful despite the controversy surrounding its posture—standing rather than seated, as in the original image in Oñati, Spain.
The history of Christianity in San Mateo traces back to the early Spanish era of 1596, with the construction of the first settlements by Augustinian friars.
Over time, the devotion to Our Lady of Aránzazu flourished, culminating in the construction of a new church dedicated to her patronage in 1716.
Address: Gen. Luna St., Barangay Ampid 1, San Mateo, Rizal
Ready to Start Your Visita Iglesia in Rizal Province?
Apart from these six, there are other churches for Visita Iglesia in Rizal Province. You can also explore churches in other Rizal towns, such as Taytay, Cainta, Morong, and Binangonan.
These old churches in Rizal provinces are symbols of faith deeply rooted in history.
As you spend Holy Week on a spiritual journey, remember that Visita Iglesia does not only mean marveling at the beauty of these sacred spaces but also taking a moment to reflect on their spiritual significance.
Also Read: A Journey to the Holy Doors of Southern Cebu