Manila: Intramuros Rev Walk

Manila’s historic Intramuros district, once the seat of Spanish colonial power, now beckons visitors to uncover its captivating past. The "Intramuros Rev Walk" offers a guided tour through this iconic walled city, where participants can explore significant landmarks and explore the Filipino struggle for freedom during the colonial era. From the imposing Fort Santiago to the majestic Manila Cathedral, this two-hour experience promises to enlighten and engage, with live commentary that brings the past to life. For those seeking to enjoy the rich tapestry of Manila’s history, the Intramuros Rev Walk presents a compelling opportunity to discover the resilience and stories that have shaped this remarkable city.

Key Points

• The Intramuros Rev Walk is a 2-hour guided tour that explores the colonial history of Manila, focusing on Filipino struggles for freedom during colonization.

• Key stops include Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, and Rizal Shrine, highlighting significant events and figures like Rajah Sulayman, Andres Novales, and General Vicente Lim.

• The tour provides a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between the church and government, as well as the experiences of Filipino and American POWs in Fort Santiago.

• Participants can pay tribute to Filipino and American POWs and engage with the history beyond mythical narratives, encouraging a more nuanced perspective on the city’s colonial past.

• The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in English, German, and Chinese, making it accessible to a diverse audience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The tour of Intramuros is priced at $70.00 per person and lasts for 2 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and allows participants to reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in English, German, and Chinese.

Highlights of the itinerary include visiting Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, Rizal Shrine, Baluarte de Dilao, Memorare Manila 1945, and Puerta del Parian.

The focus is on the Filipino struggle for freedom and the historical significance of Manila during colonization, acknowledging key figures such as Rajah Sulayman, Andres Novales, and General Vicente Lim.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the San Agustin Parking Lot, the tour takes visitors on a journey through Intramuros’ historic sites. Key stops include the iconic Fort Santiago, the ornate Manila Cathedral, the 17th-century San Agustin Church, and the Rizal Shrine. Participants will also visit the Baluarte de Dilao, Memorare Manila 1945, and Puerta del Parian, learning about Filipino struggles for freedom and the historical significance of Manila during colonization. The tour highlights the roles of notable figures like Rajah Sulayman, Andres Novales, and General Vicente Lim in the Philippines’ fight for independence.

Site	Historical Significance
Fort Santiago	Played a key role in the Philippine Revolution
Manila Cathedral	Showcased the conflict between church and government
Rizal Shrine	Honors the life and legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal
General Luna Street	Witnessed acts of courage during the Philippine-American War

Historical Significance

The Intramuros tour delves into the uprisings that shaped the Philippines’ colonial history, chronicling the defiance of Rajah Sulayman in 1571, the Sangley Revolt of 1603, and the Novales Revolt.

Visitors learn about the role of Fort Santiago, where Dr. Jose Rizal was imprisoned during the Philippine Revolution.

The tour also explores the conflicted relationship between the church and government, as seen at Manila Cathedral.

Along General Luna Street, stories of courage from the Philippine-American War are recounted.

Through these immersive experiences, participants gain a deeper understanding of the Filipino people’s struggle for freedom during the country’s colonial era.

Tour Experience

Participants embark on a guided tour with live commentary, providing an immersive experience that brings Intramuros’ history to life.

The tour encourages participants to engage with the past beyond mythical narratives, asking questions and gaining insights into the transformation of Intramuros from its historical downtown to its current state.

Key highlights of the tour experience include:

1. The opportunity to pay tribute to Filipino and American civilian prisoners of war.
2. Insight into the conflict between the church and government at Manila Cathedral.
3. Stories of courage from the Philippine-American War along General Luna Street.

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Important Information for Participants

Typically, participants are advised to meet at the UNESCO World Heritage Marker located in the St. Agustine Church Plaza to begin the Intramuros walking tour.

Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, and some cash are recommended for the 2-hour experience. Participants should also bring biodegradable insect repellent, as the tour explores outdoor historic sites.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years old or people over 95 years, so guests should plan accordingly.

Throughout the tour, guides encourage participants to ask questions and engage with the history beyond common myths, providing a rich and immersive experience exploring Manila’s Intramuros district.

Exploring Rajah Sulayman’s Defiance

Rajah Sulayman, the Rajah of Manila, played a pivotal role in the early history of Intramuros. In 1571, when the Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi arrived in the Philippines, Sulayman refused to submit to Spanish rule. This defiant act sparked a conflict that highlighted the tensions between the indigenous population and their colonial overlords.

Sulayman’s resistance took several forms:

1. He led his people in armed skirmishes against the Spanish forces.

2. He forged alliances with other local rulers to strengthen the opposition.

3. He rejected attempts by the Spanish to convert him and his people to Christianity.

Sulayman’s courageous stand underscored the Filipino people’s long-standing struggle for independence and self-determination, a theme that would echo through the centuries of Intramuros’ history.

Uncovering the Novales Revolt

Unfolding a lesser-known chapter in Intramuros’ history, the Novales Revolt stands as a testament to the Filipino people’s ongoing fight for independence.

Led by Andres Novales, a Spanish-Filipino military officer, the rebellion sought to overthrow Spanish colonial rule in 1823. Though ultimately unsuccessful, the Novales Revolt highlighted the growing tensions between the creole and peninsular factions within the colonial administration.

Centered within the walls of Intramuros, the revolt’s aftermath saw increased repression and the imprisonment of key figures like Novales himself.

This episode underscores the complex and often turbulent nature of Manila’s colonial experience, where the desire for self-determination repeatedly clashed with the realities of foreign domination.

Stories of Courage and Conflict

The streets of Intramuros have witnessed countless tales of courage and conflict, as the walled city stood at the heart of the Philippines’ tumultuous colonial history.

Visitors learn about the bravery of General Vicente Lim, who fought against the American forces during the Philippine-American War. They also discover the stories of Filipino and American civilian prisoners of war, who suffered greatly within the walls of Fort Santiago.

Plus, the tour explores the ongoing tensions between the church and the government, as exemplified by the dramatic events that unfolded at the Manila Cathedral throughout history.

These powerful narratives provide a deeper understanding of the struggles and sacrifices that shaped the city’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Filming Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and filming are generally allowed during the tour, though participants should be respectful and avoid disrupting the guide or other guests. Visitors are encouraged to capture the historical sites and share their experiences.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Areas of Interest?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific areas of interest. Guests can discuss their preferences with the tour guide, who’ll tailor the experience to address their particular historical interests within Intramuros.

Are Any Food or Drink Options Provided During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any food or drink options. Participants are encouraged to bring their own refreshments if needed, as the 2-hour walking tour doesn’t provide any catered meals or beverages along the way.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing individuals with mobility issues to fully participate. Flat pathways and convenient stops provide an inclusive experience for guests with varying physical abilities.

Can the Tour Be Booked for Private or Group Events?

The tour can be booked for private or group events. The provider offers customized itineraries and pricing for larger groups and private tours to accommodate specific needs and interests.

Recap

The Intramuros Rev Walk offers a captivating journey through Manila’s storied past. Participants can explore iconic landmarks, uncover pivotal events, and gain insights into the Philippines’ struggle for freedom during colonial rule. With engaging commentary and multilingual options, the tour provides an enriching experience for visitors seeking to enjoy the city’s rich history and heritage. Whether you’re interested in the Novales Revolt or stories of courage and conflict, this guided tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Manila.

You can check if your dates are available here: