Information about Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is one of the most historical places in the Metro. It is included among the country's National Cultural Treasures, and is located at the heart of Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas. 

The Plaza Mayor was the location where the Americans declared the liberation of the internees in the year 1945. The University of Santo Tomas, run by the Order the Preachers, was formerly known as Colegio de Nuestra Señora del Santisimo Rosario. It founded in April 28 1611 by the Archbishop of Manila, in the name of Miguel de Benavides. The title Pontifical and Royal were given by Kings Charles III of Spain and by Pope Leo XIII. These titles made UST the only established royal and pontifical university in the country. 

The university was formerly located inside the walled city of Intramuros, but later in transferred at its present location at Sampaloc Manila.  During the World War II, the entire campus was converted into a detention camp by the Japanese forces for their enemies, which includes the Americans. 

From its establishment in the year 1611, the University's academic functions were interrupted twice: first, during the Philippine revolution against Spain; and second, during the Japanese occupation in the country. Today, the Plaza Mayor has become a venue for the university's grandest events, like the UAAP Season 79 opening, the USTV Awards and many more.

Aside from the number of historical events that occurred in the area, The UST Plaza Mayor is only one of the iconic places to visit within the UST Campus. From there you can also visit the historical Main Building, the UST Museum, the Miguel de Benavides Statue, Arch of the Centuries and the infamous Benavides lane which caters students and visitors who are up for a walk in the park.

How to get there

Take the MRT to the station in Cubao, Quezon Avenue, or North Avenue, and then get off. You can take a jeep from the station to Quiapo, then ask the driver to drop you off at UST.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is during the warm season, for a more comfortable school tour experience.