Enjoy the captivating history of Manila’s Intramuros district with the "Intramuros Rev Walk" tour. Uncover the inspiring stories of the Philippine Revolution as you explore iconic landmarks like Fort Santiago, the Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church. This guided expedition delves into the power struggles, resilience, and courage that shaped the nation, shedding light on the enduring spirit of the Filipino people. From General Luna Street to Calle Real, each step of the journey promises to transport you back in time and leave you eager to discover more about this remarkable chapter of the country’s past.
Key Points
- A guided 2-hour walking tour exploring the historical significance of Intramuros, the walled city of Manila, with a focus on the Philippine Revolution and key uprisings against colonial rule.
- Visits to notable sites like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church, providing insights into the power struggles between the church and government, and the resilience of these structures.
- Immersion in the courageous tales of the Philippine-American War along General Luna Street, highlighting the determination of the Filipino people in their fight for independence.
- Observation of the transformation of Calle Real, the former commercial hub of Intramuros, which now blends colonial and modern architectural styles.
- Availability of the tour in English, German, and Chinese, and accessibility for wheelchair users, making it inclusive for a diverse range of visitors.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The "Manila: Intramuros Rev Walk" tour is a 2-hour guided experience that explores the rich history of Intramuros, the Walled City of Manila.
Priced from $70 per person, the tour is available in English, German, and Chinese, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.
The tour meets at the San Agustin Parking Lot, with the UNESCO World Heritage Marker at the center of the Church Plaza serving as the meeting point.
Wheelchair users can participate, and the tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Booking with a "reserve now & pay later" option is available, providing flexibility for travelers.
Historical Focus
The tour’s historical focus explores the Philippine Revolution and the struggle for freedom within the Walled City, Intramuros. It highlights significant uprisings like Rajah Sulayman‘s defiance in 1571, the Sangley Revolt in 1603, and the Novales Revolt.
Key figures acknowledged include Rajah Sulayman, Andres Novales, Gen. Vicente Lim, and Dr. Jose Rizal. Visitors will learn about the narratives of revolution at Rizal’s last prison cell in Fort Santiago.
The tour also discusses the power struggles between the church and government, as well as the resilience of San Agustin Church through various historical periods.
Participants will hear tales of courage during the Philippine-American War on General Luna Street and observe Intramuros’ former downtown transformation on Calle Real.
Itinerary
What does the tour’s itinerary entail? The Intramuros Rev Walk tour explores the rich historical sites within the Walled City.
Visitors will:
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Discover the last prison cell of Dr. Jose Rizal at Fort Santiago and learn about the narratives of revolution.
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Discuss the power struggles between the church and government at the Manila Cathedral.
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Uncover the resilience of the San Agustin Church through various historical periods.
Along the way, the tour also traverses General Luna Street to hear tales of courage during the Philippine-American War, and Calle Real to observe the transformation of Intramuros’ former downtown.
Fort Santiago
Why does the tour begin at Fort Santiago? This historic fortress is the perfect starting point to explore the Philippine Revolution and the struggle for freedom within Intramuros.
Guests will have the chance to explore Rizal’s last prison cell, learning about the narratives of revolution that unfolded within these walls.
The tour guide will explore the significance of this site, discussing how it served as a key military outpost and the scene of many uprisings against colonial rule.
Manila Cathedral
Next, the tour guide leads the group to the Manila Cathedral, where they discuss the power struggles between the church and government that have played out within its historic walls.
The cathedral has withstood numerous natural disasters and conflicts, serving as a symbol of the resilience of the Filipino people.
Visitors can:
- Admire the cathedral’s impressive neo-Romanesque architecture, featuring intricate carvings and stained glass windows.
- Explore the ornate interiors, including the central altar and the chapels dedicated to various Catholic saints.
- Learn about the cathedral’s role in the country’s religious and political history, from its founding in the 16th century to its involvement in the Philippine Revolution.
San Agustin Church
From the Manila Cathedral, the tour now leads the group to the nearby San Agustin Church. Founded in 1586, this church is the oldest stone church in the Philippines.
It’s known for its impressive Baroque architecture and has survived numerous earthquakes and fires. Visitors will discover the church’s resilience through its various historical periods.
The tour guide will share tales of the church’s role in power struggles between the church and government. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the interior of the church and learn about its significance in Intramuros’ history.
General Luna Street
Leaving the majestic San Agustin Church behind, the tour now heads to General Luna Street.
Here, the guide recounts tales of courage and resistance during the Philippine-American War.
Visitors will:
- Learn about the gallant defense of Intramuros against American forces in 1899.
- Discover the stories of Filipino guerrilla fighters who continued the struggle for independence.
- Observe the historic street, now transformed from its former wartime battlegrounds.
Through these captivating narratives, the tour vividly brings to life the fierce determination and sacrifice of the Filipino people in their fight for freedom.
Calle Real
The tour now leads visitors to Calle Real, once the bustling downtown of Intramuros. This historic street offers a glimpse into the transformation of the Walled City. Along Calle Real, guests can observe the striking contrast between old and new, as colonial architecture stands alongside modern establishments. The tour guide shares captivating tales of the street’s past, when it served as the commercial heart of Intramuros.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Blend of colonial and contemporary styles |
| Commerce | Former hub for trade and business |
| Transformation | Evolving from a thriving downtown to a tourist destination |
Calle Real provides a thought-provoking exploration of Intramuros’ dynamic history and ongoing evolution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated. However, it’s likely that the tour can accommodate a range of group sizes, as it caters to individual travelers and can be booked on a reserve now & pay later basis.
Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. Participants should be between 2 and 95 years old to join the tour, which focuses on the Philippine Revolution in Intramuros.
Can We Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, participants can take photos throughout the tour. The tour encourages capturing the historical landmarks and learning moments, though flash photography may be restricted in certain areas for preservation purposes.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code for the tour, but comfortable, modest attire is recommended. Avoid revealing clothing, as the sites visited have cultural and religious significance. Wear practical shoes for walking around the historic Intramuros district.
Do the Guides Accept Tips?
The tour guides do typically accept tips, though it’s not mandatory. Many participants choose to tip the guides as a way to show appreciation for their knowledge and service during the tour.
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Recap
The "Manila: Intramuros Rev Walk" offers a captivating 2-hour guided tour that delves into the rich history of the Philippine Revolution. Participants will explore significant sites like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church, uncovering stories of power struggles and the enduring spirit of the Filipino people. This tour provides an insightful and immersive experience for those interested in the country’s revolutionary past.