Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, boasts a rich architectural landscape that spans centuries.
From Spanish colonial-era churches to modern skyscrapers, the city offers a unique blend of old and new.
These structures not only showcase remarkable architectural styles but also reflect the city’s historical and cultural evolution.
What are the must-see architectural marvels in Manila that embody its diverse heritage and modern advancements?
This article explores ten of Manila’s best architectural buildings, each with its own story and significance.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a casual traveler, these landmarks will provide a deeper insight into Manila’s vibrant architectural scene.
1. San Agustin Church
San Agustin Church is located on General Luna Street in Intramuros, Manila. It is the oldest surviving church in the Philippines, boasting a rich history and beautiful architecture.
The church was originally built by the Spaniards and has been reconstructed multiple times.
It stands as the third Augustinian church erected on this site.
Notably, San Agustin Church is styled in Baroque architecture, featuring intricate designs and grand interiors.
It has been recognized as one of the most beautiful buildings in the Philippines.
For more detailed information about San Agustin Church, visit its Wikipedia page.
To contact the church, you can call (02) 8527 2746 or the accompanying museum at (02) 714 6889.
2. Manila Cathedral
The Manila Cathedral, also known as the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, is located in the historic walled city of Intramuros. This architectural gem has witnessed many significant events in the history of the Philippines.
Built during the Spanish colonization, the first version of the cathedral was constructed in 1581. It was initially a simple parish made of bamboo and nipa.
Over the centuries, it has undergone multiple reconstructions due to natural calamities and war.
Today, the Manila Cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Its current structure, completed in 1958, showcases neo-Romanesque design with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings.
Visitors can marvel at its grandeur and reflect on its past. The cathedral remains a prominent site for religious activities and tourists alike. For more information, visit the Manila Cathedral Visitor Guide.
3. The Coconut Palace
The Coconut Palace, also known as Tahanang Pilipino, is a prominent architectural gem located in the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex in Manila.
Designed by Francisco Mañosa, it showcases a unique blend of traditional Filipino architecture and modern design.
Built in 1978 by Imelda Marcos, the Coconut Palace was intended to serve as a guest house for Pope John Paul II.
The Pope decided not to stay there due to its opulence but the palace remains a significant cultural site.
Approximately 70% of the materials used in its construction come from the coconut tree.
This includes coconut shells, lumber, and specially designed coconut wood shingles on the roof.
Visitors can explore various parts of the palace, including its grand hallways and conference rooms.
The building also serves as the official residence and workplace of the Vice President of the Philippines.
For more information, you can visit the Coconut Palace on Wikipedia.
4. Cultural Center of the Philippines
The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is a major tourist and cultural site along Roxas Boulevard in Metro Manila.
It occupies an 88-hectare complex in the city of Pasay.
The center hosts a wide array of performances and events, ranging from music and dance to visual arts.
Designed by architect Leandro Locsin, the building showcases modernist architectural principles.
The CCP has been a hub for Philippine arts since its founding in 1969.
It stands as a key venue for cultural expression and creativity in the country.
The CCP complex also features performance theaters and galleries, making it an essential destination for art enthusiasts.
For more information, visit Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex.
5. National Museum of the Philippines
The National Museum of the Philippines is on Padre Burgos Avenue in Manila. The building itself is a significant piece of Neoclassical architecture, originally designed and constructed in 1926.
Formerly known as the Legislative Building, it now houses important works of art and historical artifacts. Many consider it both a museum and a work of art.
Visitors can view the extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical documents.
The museum plays a crucial role in preserving Philippine heritage. It remains one of Manila’s most important cultural landmarks. Learn more about the National Museum on Tripadvisor.
6. UnionBank Plaza
UnionBank Plaza is an office skyscraper located in Pasig, Philippines.
Rising 206 meters from ground level to roof, it is the tallest completed building in Pasig City and ranks as the 14th-tallest in the country.
This building has 49 floors above ground and features six basement levels.
Its unique shape and design make it easily recognizable.
The structure was a collaborative effort by Recio & Casa and RTKL Associates, top Filipino architectural firms.
The exterior is characterized by an aluminum unitized curtain wall over coated concrete. This design choice adds to the building’s modern aesthetic.
Multiple corners branching out at higher levels further contribute to its distinctive appearance.
UnionBank Plaza serves as the headquarters for Union Bank of the Philippines.
The building is home to various renowned corporations, cementing its place as a key business hub in the area. For more information, visit the UnionBank Plaza Wikipedia page.
7. RCBC Plaza
RCBC Plaza in Makati, Philippines, is an impressive office skyscraper complex. It’s home to the offices of the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC).
The complex consists of two buildings: RCBC Plaza Yuchengco Tower (Tower 1) and RCBC Plaza Tower 2.
RCBC Plaza Yuchengco Tower stands tall at 192 meters (630 feet). It’s currently the 8th tallest building in the Philippines. Meanwhile, RCBC Plaza Tower 2 reaches a height of 170 meters (560 feet).
Both towers feature modern architectural design and state-of-the-art facilities. They are known for their sleek glass exteriors and are a prominent part of Makati’s skyline.
For more details on RCBC Plaza, refer to the Wikipedia page on RCBC Plaza.
8. One Shangri-La Place
One Shangri-La Place stands tall in Mandaluyong, Metro Manila.
The two towers are 64 stories high, each reaching a height of 227 meters (745 feet). These structures are the tallest twin towers in the Philippines.
The residential development provides luxury amenities.
There are spacious indoor and outdoor children’s play areas, party facilities, and male and female changing rooms with sauna and steam rooms.
Additionally, One Shangri-La Place offers city views and access to lush green areas.
It’s located near the Manila Golf Club, Manila Polo Club, and Forbes Park.
Its design focuses on both comfort and elegance, making it one of the top residential buildings in Manila. Learn more about its features.
9. The Podium
The Podium is a renowned mixed-use development situated along ADB Avenue in the Ortigas Center, a major business and commercial district in Mandaluyong, Philippines.
Completed in 2002, The Podium includes a shopping mall, office spaces, and dining options.
It serves as a prime example of modern architecture and urban development in Metro Manila.
For more detailed information about The Podium, visit the relevant Wikipedia article.
10. Zuellig Building
The Zuellig Building stands at 160 meters tall in Manila’s Makati Central Business District. This 33-story office tower is notable for its environmentally conscious design and distinctive facade.
It is recognized as the first Platinum-level LEED Core and Shell building in the Philippines.
The tower emphasizes sustainable practices, making it a benchmark for green architecture in the region.
Located at a prominent intersection, the Zuellig Building features superior finishes and high-grade office spaces.
It was also shortlisted for a 2012 MIPIM Asia award, highlighting its architectural excellence.
Learn more about the Zuellig Building and its contributions to modern architecture.
Historical Significance of Manila’s Architectural Buildings
Manila’s architectural landscape includes structures from colonial times and those rebuilt after World War II. These buildings serve as reminders of the city’s cultural and historical evolution.
Colonial Era Monuments
During the Spanish colonization, Manila saw the rise of several significant buildings.
One of the most notable examples is the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Built in 1607, it is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and showcases Baroque architecture.
Another key structure is Fort Santiago, a fortress built by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi. It played a crucial role in defending Manila from invaders and is now a historical park.
Escolta Street is home to buildings like the Don Roman Santos Building, a neoclassical structure built in 1894.
This area reflects the blend of European and Filipino design elements that characterized the Spanish period.
Post-War Reconstruction
After World War II, many of Manila’s historic buildings were reconstructed.
The Manila Cathedral, originally built in 1581, was rebuilt multiple times, with the latest construction completed in 1958.
It stands as a symbol of resilience and faith for the Filipino people.
The National Museum, originally the old Legislative Building, is another landmark.
Intended as the National Library and designed by Ralph Harrington Doane and Antonio Toledo, it is a prime example of Neoclassical architecture from the post-war period. More details can be found in this comprehensive list.
The Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the President of the Philippines, also underwent significant changes after the war.
Originally built in 1750, it has been expanded and renovated multiple times, reflecting the evolving history of the Philippines.
Modern Architectural Innovations
Modern architecture in Manila features cutting-edge sustainable designs and iconic skyscrapers that contribute to the city’s evolving skyline.
Sustainable Design
Manila’s modern buildings are increasingly designed with sustainability in mind.
Architects are incorporating green technologies like solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems to reduce energy consumption and promote eco-friendly living.
Energy-efficient appliances and materials that minimize waste are also becoming standard.
For instance, buildings are often constructed with recycled materials, which helps reduce the carbon footprint.
In residential areas, the focus is on creating spaces that maximize natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning.
This not only helps the environment but also lowers energy costs for residents.
Commercial buildings are also designed to be more environmentally friendly.
Features such as green roofs, living walls, and energy-efficient HVAC systems are now more common.
These innovations make buildings more energy-efficient and improve air quality, contributing to a healthier urban environment.
Iconic Skyscrapers
Manila’s skyline is rapidly changing with the addition of new, iconic skyscrapers.
Notable among them is the PBCom Tower, which stands as one of the tallest buildings in the Philippines.
Another significant structure is the Grand Hyatt Manila, known for its impressive height and luxurious design.
These buildings not only add to the city’s aesthetic appeal but also incorporate modern engineering techniques to withstand natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons.
The Zuellig Building is another excellent example, known for its unique glass façade that reduces heat absorption and keeps the building cooler.
Such skyscrapers often feature mixed-use facilities, including offices, hotels, and residential units, making them multifunctional landmarks that serve various needs.
Advanced construction methods and materials make these tall structures possible, ensuring safety and durability.