Daraga Church: A Historical Treasure

As we got a glimpse of the Mayon Volcano, we were able to enjoy also the beautiful sight of the Daraga Church. Just the facade alone is so wonderful. Nuestra Señora de la Porteria is the patron saint of the Daraga Church. It was the title given to Blessed Virgin Mary who helped accomplish missions so that humanity can enter the kingdom of God. This church is also known as Our Lady of the Gate Church that houses the image.

This is a 17th century church with a baroque architectural design. It was built by the Franciscan missionaries in 1773 on top of a hill. The walls were made up of hardened volcanic rock. Some archeological relics of saints can be found here while rare religious seals were engraved on volcanic rocks in the façade and the belfry.

Just last year, this church was recognized as national historical treasure as declared by the National Historical Institute. A historical marker was placed at the church during a simple ceremony.