THE PHILIPPINE ARCHITECTURE DURING THE
SPANISH COLONIZATION
 The architecture of the Philippines is a reflection of
the history and heritage of the country. The most
prominent historic constructions in the archipelago
are from the Spanish Colonial period. During this
period Intramurous, the walled city, of Manila, was
built with its walls, houses, churches and fortresses.
The Augustinian friars built a large number of grand
churches all over the Philippine Islands.
 Spanish colonization introduced European
architecture into the country. The influence of
European architecture and its style actually came via
the Antilles through the Manila Galleon. The most
lasting legacy of Spain in terms of architecture was
its colonial churches which were designed by
anonymous friar.
COLONIAL URBANISM
 The story of architecture under Spain Begins with the
permanent occupation of the Island in 1565.
 The arrival of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi’s expedition
in Cebu that year ushered in an important phase in
the development of architecture and urbanism in the
Philippines.
 In 1571, Spaniards successfully occupied Manila.
They established
• Colonial Settlements
• Chapels
• Forts
The main proponents in the urban transformation of the
Philippine colonial landscape included in the following:
 Reducción
 Encomienda system
 System of cities and towns
 Cuadricula
 Colonial infrastructures
Reducción
 Forced Urbanization Program and resettlement
 The formerly scattered barangays were brought
together and reduced in number and made into
compact and larger communities to facilitate
religious conversion and cultural change.
 The Colonial space was redesigned according to an
urbanizing program.
 The villages were literally in Bajos dela Campanas
(under the bells), which sanctioned control of
native’s’ everyday life by allowing the clergy to
wake the villagers up each day, summon them to
mass and subject them to religious catechism.
Encomienda system
 Encomienda The colony was divided into parcels
assigned to a Spanish colonist (encomendero) who
was mandated to “allocate, allot or distribute” the
resources of the domain.
 The creation of land-use pattern through the
Encomienda system.
 Concept of land as a private property and capital was
introduced.
 Architecturally, the encomienda system contributed
to the construction of churches and other structures to
support the Christianization efforts. Churches were
often built using local materials and traditional
construction techniques but infused with Spanish
architectural elements.
System of cities and towns
 The institution of a hierarchical settlement system.
-“Pueblos”– Capitals or Towns
-“Cabecera” (head) The core of municipality or
poblacion
-“Barrios” Adjacent Barangays -“Estancias” – large
ranches or first haciendas
 Architecturally, this system led to the construction of
government buildings, churches, and residences in
urban centers. The urban layout often followed a grid
pattern, with streets arranged in a planned manner.
Cuadricula
 A system of streets and blocks laid out with uniform
precision
 LAWS OF THE INDIES (Leyes de Indias)
 -A set of planning guideline
 - The “Laws of the Indies” were decreed by King
Philip II in 1573.
 - The laws guided Spanish colonists on how to create
and expand towns in Spanish territories
 - It establishes the church as urban landmark and
plaza public space.
 The cuadricula influenced the layout of streets and
the placement of buildings. Churches and important
structures were strategically located, and the grid
pattern influenced the overall urban design
Colonial infrastructures
  The introduction of building typologies and
construction technologies through colonial
infrastructures.
 Colonial infrastructures were constructed of sturdier
and more permanent building materials.
 Distinguish itself from the flimsy indigenous
architecture
SPANISH COLONIAL STRUCTURES
Military Architecture and Defense Installations (Fortresses)
 The building of garrisons, naval constructions, and
fortresses was a military strategy to safeguard and
protect the Spanish colonial possessions.
 Patterned to European Style and characterized by
heavy stonewalls, moats, and grid road layouts.
FORT SAN PEDRO- CEBU (1565)
 Fort San Pedro (Spanish: Fuerte de San Pedro) is a
military defense structure in Cebu, Philippines, built
by the Spanish.
 The fort is triangular in shape, with two sides facing
the sea and the third side fronting the land. The two
sides facing the sea were defended with artillery and
the front with a strong palisade made of wood.
FORT SANTIAGO- MANILA (1590)
 The fort was named after Saint James (Santiago in
Spanish), the patron saint of Spain. The solid stone
structure has an Italian-Spanish architectural style.
 Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, spent
his last days holed up in Fort Santiago before being
marched off to Bagumbayan (now Rizal Park) where
he was executed by firing squad.
FORT SAN FELIPE- CAVITE (1617)
 It was constructed by the Spanish military in 1609 in
the first port town of Cavite, the historic core of the
present and larger Cavite City, for its protection.
 The structure is made of granite blocks, with walls
approximately 30 feet high
 A wide stairway leads to the top of the port where a
concrete house can be found.
Fuerza de Nuestra Senora del Rosario (1617)
 Fort San Pedro, also called Fuerza de la Nuestra
Señora del Rosario, was a military defense structure
in Iloilo City, Philippines.
 The need for protection from frequent Dutch and
Moro raids
Fuerza de Nuestra Seniora del Pilar- Zamboanga Peninsula
(1635)
 A stone fort in defense against pirates and raiders of
the sultans of Mindanao and Jolo.
 The cornerstone of the fort, originally called Real
Fuerza de San José (Royal Fort of Saint Joseph)
Edifices for religious conversion (Churches)
 Prior to colonization the Natives / Early Filipinos did
not worship in temples. Instead, members of the
families, dependents and relatives met for some
special rituals in private places called SIMBAHAN.
According to Padre Francisco de San Antonio, OFM
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño- Cebu
 It is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country,
allegedly built on the spot where the image of the
Santo Niño de Cebú was found during the expedition
of Miguel López de Legazpi.
 Commonly known as Santo Niño Basilica, is a minor
basilica in Cebu City in the Philippines that was
founded in 1565 by Fray Andrés de Urdaneta and
Fray Diego de Herrera.
Bantay Church (Shrine of Our Lady of Charity)- Ilocos Sur
 Belfry served as a watchtower for pirates; Neo-
Gothic
 The Saint Augustine Parish Church, commonly
known as Bantay Church, is a Roman Catholic
church in Bantay, Ilocos Sur in the Philippines. The
church was dedicated to Saint Augustine of Hippo.
Carcar Church (Church of Sta. Catalina de Alexandria)- Cebu
 The Carcar Church exhibits the form of a basilica. Its
complex also host a separate building which is
intended and used as a convent.
 It is built using coral stones with part of its structure,
specifically its upper stories and ceiling made using
hardwood. The structure is of mixed architecture
style. Parts of the structure exhibit examples of Neo-
Mudéjar, Revival Baroque, and Austrian Baroque
architecture.
San Sebastian Church- Manila
 San Sebastian Church has two openwork towers and
steel vaulting. From its floor, the basilica's nave rises
12 meters (39 ft) to the dome, and 32 meters (105 ft)
to the tip of the twin spires
 The faux finished interior of the church incorporates
groined vaults in the Gothic architecture style
permitting very ample illumination from lateral
windows.
Manila Cathedral; Intramuros- Manila
  The Manila Cathedral, officially known as the Minor
Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the
Immaculate Conception. The current structure of the
Manila Cathedral is the eighth iteration, as the
previous versions were destroyed either by natural
disasters or during World War II.
 The current cathedral, completed in 1958, was
designed by the renowned Filipino architect
Fernando H. Ocampo. It features a combination of
different architectural styles, predominantly blending
Neo-Romanesque and Neo-Byzantine influences.
Baroque Churches of the Philippines
San Agustin Church- Intramuros, Manila.
 San Agustin Church is a prime example of Baroque
architecture in the Philippines. It was founded in
1571 by Spanish friars under the leadership of
Augustinian friar Fray Andres de Urdaneta.
 The church's facade is adorned with intricate carvings
and details characteristic of the Baroque style. The
facade features Corinthian columns, pilasters, and
decorative elements that showcase the ornate and
dramatic style of the Baroque period.
Paoay Church- Paoay, Ilocos Norte.
 The construction of Paoay Church began in 1694 by
Augustinian friars under the leadership of Father
Antonio Estavillo.
 Characterized by massive buttresses on the sides and
back of the church, the Earthquake Baroque style
aims to provide structural stability. The church is
made predominantly of coral stones, which were cut
and carved into large blocks. The use of coral stones
not only adds to the structural strength but also gives
the church a striking appearance.
Miag-ao Church- Miag-ao, Iloilo.
 The church is characterized by massive stone walls
and features a defensive appearance. The facade is
adorned with intricate bas-reliefs and sculptures,
showcasing a mix of European and local elements.
 One notable feature of Miag-ao Church is its massive
buttresses or supporting structures at the sides, which
not only serve as a decorative element but also
provide stability to the church against earthquakes.
Santa Maria Church- Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur
 The Santa Maria Church features a unique
architectural style known as Earthquake Baroque,
which is a distinct variant of Baroque architecture
adapted to the seismic conditions of the Philippines.
This architectural style emerged in response to the
frequent earthquakes that occur in the region. The
Earthquake Baroque style is characterized by massive
buttresses on the sides of the church that support the
structure and help prevent damage during
earthquakes.
Parts of a Church
 Altar Mayor (Main altar)
 Sagrario (Tabernacle)
 Pulpito (Pulpit)
 Retablo (elaborately ornamented altar screen)
 Sacristia (where the priest and his assistants put on
their robes before the mass.)
 Coro (Choir loft)
 Convento (Parish house or rectory)
 Campanarios (Bell tower)
Architecture for Colonial Administration (Institutional
Buildings)
 Epitomized the Spanish administrative institution
Ayuntamiento de Manila (Manila City Hall)
 The original Ayuntamiento was constructed during
the Spanish colonial period in 1599, making it one of
the oldest structures in Manila.
 The building served as the seat of the city
government during Spanish rule. The architecture
during this period was influenced by Spanish colonial
styles, characterized by thick walls, arches, and a
simple yet imposing facade.
Palacio del Gobernador- Intramuros, Manila
 The original building was constructed in 1599 to
serve as the residence of the Spanish Governor-
General, who was the highest-ranking official in the
Philippines during the Spanish colonial period.
 The architecture is predominantly characterized by
Spanish colonial influences, with features such as
arcades, balconies, and thick walls. The use of coral
stones for construction is a common characteristic of
Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines.
Casa Aduana- Intramuros, Manila
 This two-storey governmental structure follows a
Neo-Classical tradition, with an emphasized
horizontality and symmetrical form, particularly on
the design of its façade.
 The Aduana Building was originally constructed in
the late 1820s and served as the headquarters of the
customs offices during the Spanish colonial period. It
played a significant role in the economic and
administrative functions of the Philippines during
that time. The building underwent several
renovations and reconstructions over the years.
Educational and Scientific Facilities (Schools)
  The missionary task of bringing education, health
care and social welfare to the indigenous subjects
were zealously fulfilled by the various religious
order.
Colegio de San Ildefonso (1595-1769)
 Located in Cebu City and known as the first
educational institution established in Asia by the
Europeans outside Manila
 Currently, University of San Carlos, CEBU under
SVD fathers. Founded Padre Antonio Sedeño, SJ
Colegio de San Jose Manila (1571)
 Oldest existing Seminary, now part ADMU
Katipunan
 Founded by Padre Pedro Chirino, SJ
Universidad de Santo Tomás (1611)
 The university was established on April 28, 1611,
making it the oldest existing university in Asia and
one of the oldest in the world. The architecture of
UST reflects its long and storied history.
 The university's earliest structures were built during
the Spanish colonial period, characterized by
Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles.
Colegio de Niños Huerfanos de San Juan de Letran
 Founded in 1620 by Don Juan Geromino Guerrero,
Spanish military captain, administered by the
Dominican Friars.
 During the Spanish colonial period, architectural
styles were influenced by Spanish Baroque and later,
Neoclassical designs.
Ateneo de Manila
 Former known as Escuela Municipal de Manila
(1859–1865)
 exclusive school for the Boys with bachelor degree in
Arts (Before)
(Other Infrastructure and Industrial Buildings)
 Because of the Hispanic urban program, living
standards were elevated through urban infrastructure
and public works.
Puente de España (Bridge of Spain)
 Built after the destruction of Puente Grande (first and
only bridge crossing the Pasig River) in the 1863
earthquake.
Tutuban Station
 The Tutuban Station of the ManilaDagupan railway
line; served as the main terminal for all northbound
destinations.
Pasig Parola
 The oldest lighthouse in the Philippines; also known
as the San Nicolas lighthouse.
Carriedo Waterworks
 The Carriedo Waterworks installed the piped-in
water system. The water was offered to the public
free of charge
Carcel y Presidio Correccional de Manila.
 Manila Bilibid Prison, Radial Configuration with a
central panopticon tower.
 Bilibid was established during the Spanish colonial
period in 1847. It was initially intended to serve as a
provincial jail but later became the main penitentiary
for the entire Philippines.
Real Banco Españo de Las Islas Filipinas de Reyna Isabela II
 Oldest existing bank in the country located also in
Casa Aduana -owned by the familla Zobel de Ayala
 The bank was established during the reign of Queen
Isabel II of Spain, and its primary purpose was to
facilitate financial transactions and support economic
activities in the Philippines.
(Domestic Structures)
 Dwellings reflecting the differences in social class.
Accesorias
 Refers to small commercial or residential buildings or
spaces commonly found in urban areas. These
structures typically lined the streets and were often
used for various commercial purposes or as
additional living spaces
 Evolved from the need of migrant laborers for cheap
housing in commercial and industrial areas.
 Vivienda, each unit; has a zaguan, sala and sleeping
quarters.
Bahay na Bato
  A housing prototype which combined elements of the  Capped by a high hip roof with a 45-degree-angle
indigenous and Hispanic building traditions to pitch
prevent the dangers posed by fire, earthquakes and
cyclones Parts of a Bahay na Bato
 It used the new hybrid-type of construction, coined
by Jesuit Francisco Ignacio Alcina, which refers to
structures built partly of wood and partly of stone
called “Arquitectura Mestiza”.

Characteristics of a Bahay na Bato

 Generally has two storeys, at times three.

 The ground floor is made of cut stone or brick, the
upper of wood.
 Windows: ground floor, grillworks; second floor, Parts of a Bahay na Bato
sliding shutters with capiz shells or glass panels.