Information about Molo Church

Molo Church 

Dubbed as one of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines, Molo Parish Church is an iconic historical site nestled in Iloilo City. Famous for being the only Gothic-Renaissance Church in the entire country outside of Manila, Molo Church attracts tourists that are eager to explore one of the historical and heritage site in Western Visayas. 

It is made of white coral stone facade that enhance the distinct Gothic-Renaissance elements of the structure. The Gothic features is manifested in its distinct two red pointed belltowers, pointed arches at the main altar and pulpits, combined with its Renaissance dome and interior. The belltowers houses 30 bells of different sizes. 

Also known as St. Anne Parish Church, it is famous for being “the feminist church” and the only one in the country with 16 statues of female saints lined in two rows perched inside the church. These saints are Sta. Marcela, Apolonia, Genoveva, Isabel, Felicia, Ines, Monica, Magdalena, Juliana, Lucia, Rosa de Lima, Teresa, Clara, Cecilia, Margarita and Marta.

The church, which is named after St. Anne, the mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the patron saint of Molo Church, has her image at the center of the altar, along with the statues of the Blessed Virgin and the Holy Trinity under the Gothic-style canopy. With two archangels: Michael and Raphael guarding the main portal of the church. 

From its humble church originally made of tabique pampango in 1863, the Gothic-Renaissance structure were made in 1869. Molo Church was visited by Dr. Jose Rizal in 1866 because of some biblical painting, which can no longer be seen in the church. Withstanding the passage of time, Molo Church proves its strong structure during the Second World War, when it serves as an evacuation center. The church also withstood several strong earthquakes and storm in the past. In 1992, Molo Parish Church was declared as a national landmark by the National Historical Institute. 

How to get there

Since it is a well-known tourist destination, a cab or a jeepney should make getting there simple. Nearly all jeepney routes that include "Arevalo" or "Molo" in their names may drive via the plaza, including Villa Arevalo, Molo Mandurriao, Molo Baluarte, Oton Anhawan, and Oton Derecho. For a hassle-free vacation, you may also sign up for a guided tour.

Best time to visit

This is an all-year-round destination that can be visited anytime of day.