Paoay Church

San Agustin Church stands in the town of Paoay on Luzon and ranks among the most notable structures from the Philippine colonial period. Its walls of coral stone and brick carry 24 massive buttresses measuring over five feet (1.5 meters) thick.

Construction began in 1686 under the direction of Augustinian Father Antonio Estavillo and was completed in 1710. The structure later suffered damage from several severe earthquakes that required repairs and reinforcement.

The building brings together baroque forms with elements introduced by Chinese craftsmen and local construction methods from the Ilocos region. This mix appears in the heavy buttresses and curved details that give the structure its distinctive character.

Access to the church is free and visitors can climb the three-story bell tower next door for a wide view over the landscape. Those visiting the region between December and May will find dry weather and better conditions for photography.

The mortar between the stones was mixed with lime, sand, sugarcane juice, mango leaves and rice straw to give the structure more resistance during earthquakes. This recipe comes from local tradition and appears in few other buildings in the region.

Location: Paoay

Inception: 1686

Official opening: 1710

Architectural style: Earthquake Baroque

Length: 110 m

Width: 40 m

Part of: Baroque Churches of the Philippines

GPS coordinates: 18.06148,120.52159

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:43