The foundation is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, dating back originally to the end of the 16th century. Originally a Jesuit foundation, it was founded by Spanish missionaries Juan de Torres and Gabriel Sanchez. Muslim insurgents forced them to move inland to Loboc, so the site fell into disuse until the early 18th century. At that time the church was reconstructed, mainly using coral stones. Allegedly, egg white was used instead of mortar to cement the stones together. I imagine this is why the inside is now rather musty and mouldy! In 1835, the bell tower was added, and in the 19th century, the Augustinians added a modern facade and a number of stone buildings that now surround the church. The altar end has been restored recently, thank goodness, because the altar is very fine indeed and the ceiling has some wonderful paintings, well renovated.
Next to the church is the old convent, which also houses a small museum containing many religious relics, some dating back to the 16th century, including an ivory statue of the crucified Christ; a statue of the Blessed Virgin, said to have been presented by Queen Catherine of Aragon (first wife of Henry VIII of England - there is no trace of her actually having visited the Philippines!!); relics of St. Ignatius of Loyola; old gold embroidered ecclesiastical vestments; books with carabao skin covers; librettos of church music written in Latin on sheep skins; and various religious paintings made by Filipino painter Liberato Gatchalian in 1859.
Below the Church is a dungeon, which was used to punish natives who violated the rules of the Roman Catholic church.This scarcely matches the message of love and forgiveness preached by Jesus; thank goodness things are done rather differently these days!
