Philippines | Church of Pan-ay

The Santa Monica Parish Church (Spanish: Iglesia Parroquial de Santa Mónica), commonly known as Panay Church, is the oldest church on the island of Panay located in Panay Municipality, Capiz, Philippines. It is also the home of the largest church bell in the country and in Asia, and the third biggest in the world.  —Source

Finally! After the many vacations that we spent in Capiz. I’ve seen this National Historical Landmark.

I just love the carved details on the door.

I like the simple interiors.

Original Roof Truss

 

I can’t remember how many steps it took to get to the belfry. It was a steep climb. It made me a proud apo to tell you that, my octogenarian lolas made it to the top. Slowly but surely. According to Randy (tour guide), the oldest climber of this tower was a 98 year old lady.

Up we go!

The old clock tower. Not working anymore.

Lola Nita, my Dad’s aunt and Lola Corazon wearing red. Taking each step slowly but surely.

Spanish inscription on the 10.4 ton bell.

Aside from the main bell, there’s also other bells surrounding the belfry. Each has its own purpose,there one for weddings, funeral, disaster signal  and the usual Sunday mass.

                                        
                  

Beside the church is Museo de Santa Monica.

Church artifacts and memorabilia are currently housed at the Santa Monica Museum. Some of these include an early 1770s bas-relief work of artist Joseph Bergaño, a solid bronze 1700s tabernacle, and a pure silver 1600s tablernacle —Source

Pure silver tabernacle circa 1600’s

Church artifacts and memorabilias.

That accordion still works when stretched out vertically. Except for the keys on both ends.

Located at the back of Museo De Santa Monica.

The church is right in front of the Centro Turismo de Panay.

Randy, our tour guide. He was recommended by Ms. Che from the Panublion Museum. He’s a under the helm of  Roxas Tourism. Give him a generous amount, he’s a good kid.

                 

The next time I’m back, I want to go to Olotayan Island and Isla de Gigantes in Iloilo.

Till next time Roxas City!