Fort Santiago is a defense fortress that was built by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, who was a Spanish conquistador. Fort Santiago is at Intramuros in Manila and is in proximity to the Pasig River. The fort was built when the Spanish made Philippines their colony. Before their arrival, the area was occupied by Rajah Sulayman, who was the chieftain of the city and was defeated by the Spanish.
After Rajah Sulayman was defeated, the Spanish built the fort on his settlement in the year 1571. Initially, the fort was built by earth and log structures. The fort faced severe destruction during the Spanish- hinese War between 1574-1575. The fort was rebuilt in 1589 with hard stone.
About Fort Santiago
The fort is bounded by walls, which are 22 feet high. The entrance walls of the fort are 40 feet high. The Japanese captured Fort Santiago in Manila during the Second World War. Jose Rizal, who is considered to be the national hero of Philippines, was kept in the fort dungeon and executed. When Jose was imprisoned in Fort Santiago, he penned down his last poem, which has become his eternal creation.
In the present days, Fort Santiago is one of the major
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tourist spots in the city and also houses a museum. The displayed items of the museum include Rizal Shrine, things used by the Spanish officials. The premises of the fort has been beautified and transformed into a beautiful park.
How to Reach Fort Santiago
The tourists to Manila can reach the fort by taxis. Intramuros is a popular destination of the city and is known to the taxi drivers. Light Rail Transit (LRT) can also be availed by the tourists. The passengers have to get down at United Nations station and then it would take about 25 minutes to reach the spot. Jeepneys are also popular mode of transport that can be availed by the tourists.
Address of Fort Santiago is:
Fort Santiago
Santa Clara Street
Manila,
CA 10002
Philippines
Timings: opened daily from 8.00 am in the morning to 6.00pm in the evening.
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