Santa Maria, municipality of the Philippines in the province of Ilocos Sur
Santa Maria is a small municipality in Ilocos Sur province on the Philippines, situated on a hilltop. The old church rises at the edge of the hill, surrounded by rice fields with views toward distant mountains.
The Santa Maria Church was built in the 1700s and is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Its thick walls and sturdy construction show it has endured for many centuries.
The name Santa Maria reflects the devotion to the Virgin Mary, which runs deep in the local community. People use the church not only for prayer but also as a gathering place for shared celebrations and ceremonies that shape village life.
Getting there works best by car or bus through countryside and small villages. Plan to visit early or late in the day for the best photos and fewer crowds.
Near Santa Maria lies Pinsal Falls, a large waterfall with an impressive curtain of water that crashes down cliffs. The site holds local fame because a famous superhero scene was filmed there decades ago.
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