INTRAMUROS MANILA
If Jakarta has an Old Town with a Dutch feeling, then Manila in the Philippines has Intramuros with a Spanish feeling. Intramuros is the Old City Area of Manila located within the city's fortified walls.
In Latin itself, Intramuros means within the walls. Intramuros is the oldest district in Manila and has a long history, from when it was part of the Spanish Empire, until now. The giant wall that surrounds Intramuros was originally created to protect the residents inside. Anyone can come and see this old city of Spanish heritage.
Even though it looks strong, Intramuros itself was destroyed when there was a war with Japanese troops during the Second World War. Reconstruction was carried out in 1951, when Intramuros was made a National Monument.
Not far from the entrance, you can find 'kalesa,' a carriage which is a legacy of Spain. The capacity is quite large, 10 people with the driver. Apart from kalesa, you can also find tricycles, aka motor rickshaws. If you don't feel like walking, you can pay around 450 pesos or IDR 120,000 for a Kalesa tour service for 1 hour. But remember to check the time, the driver won't tell you. If more than 1 hour, you need to pay more.
In Intramuros you can see various ancient buildings from Spain. Several famous places such as Fort Santiago, City Plaza, Casa Manila which is the oldest house, and San Agustin Church which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be visited.
After exploring Intramuros, you can visit Rizal Park which is located close to the Ermita district. Right next to it. Visiting Intramuros, we seem to be taken back to ancient times during the Spanish Kingdom. If you go to Manila, don't forget to stop by the old town of Intramuros.
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