Manaoag Church, Minor basilica in Manaoag, Philippines
This basilica in Manaoag is a Roman Catholic church set on a hill in the northern Philippines, known for its Neo-Romanesque facade and tall bell tower. Inside, painted wall surfaces run along the nave and transept arms, while the sanctuary behind the main altar houses the venerated image.
Augustinian friars founded a mission here in 1575, before Dominicans took over in 1605 and began building the current sanctuary. The image received its canonical coronation in 1926 through a papal delegate.
Pilgrims come here to pray before the image of the Virgin of Manaoag, considered a protector during difficult times for centuries. Many bring candles or leave small plaques thanking her for answered prayers.
The church sits about 200 kilometers (125 miles) north of Manila and sees heavy attendance on weekends, when multiple services run back to back. Visitors who wish to avoid long queues near the sanctuary should come during weekday mornings.
The interior walls display painted scenes of miracles that believers have attributed to the Virgin of Manaoag. These depictions range from healings to rescues at sea, documenting centuries of local devotion.
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