University of Santo Tomas Central Seminary Building, Art Deco seminary building in Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines.
The Central Seminary Building is an Art Deco structure in Sampaloc, Manila, featuring an E-shaped floor plan with extended frontage. The second and third levels display continuous balconies and windows running along the entire facade, characteristic of the period's architectural language.
The building was completed in 1932 by architect Fernando H. Ocampo Sr. and was designed following earthquake-resistant principles. The project reflected lessons learned from seismic events that had occurred in the Asian region.
This place serves as a working seminary and parish church where religious services continue to take place alongside academic training for priests. Visitors can observe the daily rhythm of religious and educational life integrated within a single architectural space.
The complex contains a functioning church, seminary facilities, and various academic departments within a single building. Visitors should be aware that access may be limited since this remains an active religious and educational institution.
The building features artistic Art Deco reliefs, bud-shaped finials, and decorative tableaus integrated into its stepped pylon entrance. These ornamental details showcase the craftsmanship that went into the structure's decorative elements.
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