INTRAMUROS HISTORY

The Walled City

The name Intramuros comes from the Latin prefix intra, meaning inside, and the Spanish word muros, which means walls. Hence, its other name is "Walled City." It is found at the mouth of the Pasig River and has strategic importance for trade and defense. The land where Intramuros now stands was once part of the tribal kingdom ruled by rajahs (native chieftains).

It is one of the oldest districts of Manila and was built by the Spaniards some 400 years ago as their political military base in Asia. Grand administrative establishments, as well as religious and educational institutions, thrived within Intramuros, where only the nations's most powerful clans (mostly from Spanish descent) could settle. It plays an important part to our country's history and it is one of the popular destinations for a tourists in our hometown. Aside from that, having survived colonial invaders, war and natural disasters, it also serves as a symbol for Manila itself. Its peaceful plazas, elegant colonial houses and shady courtyards are a living legacy of the city's past.

In 1951, Intramuros was declared as a historical monument with Republic Act 597. In 1979, the Intramuros Administration which currently maintains and manages Intramuros was created by virtue of Presidential Decree 1616. Today, Intramuros has quickly emerged as one of the top tourist attractions not only in the Philippines but in the world.

For hundreds of years, Intramuros was Manila itself. Its walls served not only as a defense, but also as a witness to the city's tumultuous years, which reverberated all over the country.

ATTRACTIONS AND TOURIST SPOTS IN INTRAMUROS, MANILA: