Palacio Arzobispal, Religious palace in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines
Palacio Arzobispal is an archbishop's residence in Intramuros built in traditional Filipino Bahay na Bato style, combining stone and wood construction. The structure, reconstructed in the 1980s, now serves as the administrative center for the Archdiocese of Manila, housing offices and various church departments.
Archbishop Miguel de Poblete acquired the land in 1653 to establish a residence after finding himself without shelter. This marked the beginning of one of the five episcopal palaces in the Philippines during that period.
The chapel inside creates a physical connection between the palace courtyard and the ruins of San Ignacio Church, showing how religious buildings shaped the layout of Intramuros. This link reveals the deep role the Catholic Church played in developing the neighborhood.
The palace occupies half a city block in Intramuros, making it straightforward to locate among the historic sites in the area. Visitors should keep in mind that this is an active administrative center, so access may be limited to certain areas.
Inside the palace is an archive and museum holding documents and artifacts that trace the Catholic Church's long presence in the Philippines. This collection provides access to religious records that are rarely seen by the general public.
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