Arch of the Centuries, Historical monument at University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
The Arch of the Centuries is a triumphal gateway at the entrance of the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, featuring Doric columns with intricate Baroque stone details. The structure combines architectural elements from two different periods into a single unified composition.
The northern section of the gateway preserves original stone from the 1611 entrance of the university's first campus in the Intramuros district. The southern portion was reconstructed in 1954 as part of a larger campus restoration and expansion project.
The gateway is named after Saint Thomas Aquinas, the university's patron saint, and serves as a symbolic entrance for students and visitors. It marks the transition from the busy city streets into the academic world of the campus.
The monument sits along España Boulevard in the Sampaloc district and is easily accessible by multiple public transportation options including jeepneys, buses, and the Light Rail Transit. Visitors should come in early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid heavy traffic and to see the stone details more clearly.
The gateway features bronze markers detailing the achievements of notable Filipino graduates from the university. These plaques create a hidden timeline of academic accomplishment, allowing visitors to discover the remarkable accomplishments of those who studied here.
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