ILOILO | Molo Church

Molo is one of the seven districts of Iloilo City. It was built by Spaniards and was formerly called the Parian (Chinatown) due to its large number of Chinese residents and their business establishments in the area at the time. Its name was later changed to Moro during the frequent arrival of Muslim pirates from Mindanao until it later evolved into Molo. Molo was a town before it was absorbed by Iloilo City during its charter in 1937.

The Gothic Renaissance Church of Molo was used as a watch tower to warn the people if there are any attackers on the shore of Iloilo City. It is a fine coral stone church with Classical and Gothic details. It is also known as the feminist church because of the beautiful female saints lining inside the church.

Sometime during 1896, the site was visited by Jose Rizal, mainly to look at the Biblically inspired artwork (no longer present). It was also used as a haven for civilians during the Second World War; testament to the effects of the war are the bullet holes still present in some of its bells.

The first thing that will strike the visitor to the Molo Church are the imposing spires, which are a bright red in color. As impressive as the exterior, the interior is even more stunning. The trained eye will see that the artistry is a magnificent amalgamation of the Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. To the casual viewer, it is an awesome view, wherein the various shades of yellow, gold and shades of brown combine to create a resplendent area for prayer and devotion.

A tour of the Molo Church will reveal the glorious altars, fashioned in the Gothic manner, and adorned by elaborate works of art. Also prominently displayed are 16 images of female saintly figures including Saint Anne, the patroness to whom the shrine is dedicated.

The views of the Molo Church are compelling at any time of the day, but it is during the afternoon that the full beauty of the magnificent structure is unveiled. Standing outside the church you can see the soft glow of the rays of the sun as they cast down on the façade. The results are unique and fascinating displays of light and shade.

Source: Wikipedia and http://www.iloiloboard.com/molo-church.php