Intramuros

Intramuros is the historic walled core of Manila, the 'city within walls' built by Spanish colonists in the 16th century, and the most evocative window into the Philippines' colonial past. Within its thick stone ramparts lie cobblestone streets, the imposing Fort Santiago (a citadel and shrine to national hero José Rizal, imprisoned here before his execution), the baroque San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest stone church in the country), and Manila Cathedral. Horse-drawn kalesa carriages and bamboo-bike tours are popular ways to explore.

Much of Intramuros was devastated in WWII and partly reconstructed, so it mixes genuine survivals with restorations, but it remains atmospheric and deeply significant. It's the essential historical heart of Manila, come for Fort Santiago, San Agustin, and a wander through the ramparts and plazas.

Don't miss

• Fort Santiago and the José Rizal shrine
• San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Manila Cathedral and colonial plazas
• The stone ramparts and cobbled streets
• Kalesa (horse-carriage) and bamboo-bike tours

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Prioritise Fort Santiago (and the Rizal shrine) and San Agustin Church.
• A guided kalesa or bamboo-bike tour is a good way to cover the district and learn the history.
• Go early or late to avoid the midday heat and Manila's traffic.
• Much was rebuilt after WWII, expect a mix of genuine and restored structures.

A bit of history

Founded in 1571, Intramuros was the seat of Spanish colonial government in the Philippines for over three centuries, enclosed by massive walls. It was almost entirely destroyed in the Battle of Manila in 1945; key monuments have since been restored, and the district is the focus of the city's heritage preservation.