PhilparVisita Iglesia Albay: Our Lady of the Gate Church in Daraga
The Nuestra Señora de la Porteria (Our Lady of the Gate) Parish Church in Daraga, Albay is a National Cultural Treasure and is one of the most visited old churches in the Philippines. Also known as the Daraga Church, it was built in 1773 by Franciscan Missionaries on a hill overlooking the bustling town. When Mayon Volcano erupted on February 1, 1814, it destroyed the nearby town of Cagsawa, Budiao. Survivors of the catastrophe then chose to relocate in Daraga. Today, aside from its religious and historical significance, tourists flock to Daraga Church for another reason: it offers a majestic view of Mount Mayon. We failed to see Mayon's perfect shape at the peak of Ligñon Hill, so after breakfast, Malou and I set off to destination number 2: the Daraga Church. From the Legazpi Airport Hotel where we are billeted, we walked towards the highway and hailed a jeepney with Legazpi-Daraga signboard. Daraga is about 6 kilometers away from Legazpi City and I told the driver to drop us o...