Taal reigns as one of the most architecturally preserved sited of the Spanish colonial era in the Southern Tagalog region. The quaint and picturesque town showcases beautiful Antillean and art deco period home, as well as old churches and historical landmarks associated with many key events of the Philippine Revolution of 1896-1898. It is also the embroidery capital of the region, with many skilled artisans producing delicately embroidered native cloth in fine, intricate designs.
Batangas Memorial Foundation Museum and Library
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Taal Heritage Village, Batangas (image captured by Ivan Henares) |
Relics of a glorious past are displayed in this 18th century house on V. Ilustre Street that serves as the Batangas Memorial Foundation Museum and Library. The house has endured two world wars and has undergone two major renovations in 1870 and 1940 to attain its present state.
Ilagan Ancestral House, Marcela Agoncillo Street
A well-preserved residential structure constructed in the late Spanish period, the house is still used by the descendants as a private residence. Visitors can be accommodated only by special arrangement with the owners.
Leon Apacible Historical Landmark
The ancestral house of Leon Apacible, one of the heroes of the revolution, now serves as a historical shrine that displays the personal effects of the hero along with his family’s collection of memorabilia.
Basilica of San Martin de Tours, Taal
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| Basilica of St. Martin de Tours, Batangas (image captured by Claire Raborar) |
Reputedly patterned after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the Basilica was constructed in 1856 to honor the town patron whose feast is celebrated every November. The church, with its theatrically baroque facade, silver tabernacle and richly complex design features, is an interesting study for architectural enthusiasts.
Our Lady of Caysasay Church and Shrine, Taal
Beside the Basilica is Our Lady of Caysaysay Church, repository of Batangas Province’s many distinctive cultural artifacts from the Spanish colonial period. Among these relics is the 27-cm high image of the Virgin of Caysasay, which was fished out of the waters of Batangas in 1603.
Santa Lucia Wells, Taal
Connecting the Taal Church and Caysasay Shrine is a flight of 123 rough-hewn marble steps branching off on a path to the Santa Lucia Wells. The site used to be a brook where the Virgin of Caysasay was believed to have performed miracles. Water from these wells is believed to be curative.
Escuela Pia, Taal
Standing prominently in the town plaza is the Escuela Pia, a centuries-old Spanish vintage edifice that used to serve as an educational institution during Spanish times.
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