Manila – Intramuros, the Walled City of Manila, has further solidified its position as a premier historical, cultural, and tourism destination with the launching on Sunday, 9 June 2024, of Centro de Turismo Intramuros.
This comprehensive tourist hub features a museum that offers an immersive experience into the rich history, vibrant present, and sustainable future of Intramuros. Exhibits and historical artifacts will take visitors on a journey through the Walled City’s pre-colonial roots, its role as a Spanish colonial center, the devastation of World War II, its ongoing revitalization, and its future development.
The center will also serve as a versatile events space that could cater to various functions and activities.
Centro de Turismo Intramuros was made possible through the support of the Office of the President and the Office of the First Lady, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and the Intramuros Administration.
In her message during the launch, First Lady Maria Louise “Liza” Araneta Marcos, a champion of restoring historic sites to their old glory, said “The Intramuros Tourist Center symbolizes our gateway to the past. It’s a celebration of rich history and a testament to our collective identity.”
The First Lady expressed hope that Centro de Turismo will foster a deeper understanding of the past and ignite a passion for preserving our cultural treasures.
The center is housed at the former site of San Ignacio Church, one of the seven original churches of Intramuros that was renowned for its Neoclassical architecture and intricate woodwork. The church was destroyed during the Battle of Manila in 1945.
Intramuros Administrator Atty. Joan Padilla referred to Centro de Turismo Intramuros as an embodiment of the ideals of San Ignacio (St. Ignatius) who championed education and exploration. “This center is not just a place to visit; it is a gateway to understanding and appreciating our rich past and the dynamic possibilities of our future. We see this center opening up new opportunities for Intramuros as a prime tourism destination,” she said.
Centro de Turismo Intramuros will open its doors to the public starting 12 June 2024 in time for the commemoration of the 126th Philippine independence day. It will operate daily from 9AM to 6PM, with free entrance for all.
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About Intramuros Administration (IA)
IA is a National Government Agency attached to the Department of Tourism of the Philippines. Under Presidential Decree No. 1616, IA is responsible for the orderly restoration and development of Intramuros as a monument to the Hispanic period of Philippine history.
Contact point:
Office of the Intramuros Administrator
8527-7300 | [email protected]
