In 1991, the National Heritage Institute declared the Santa Barbara Church and Convent as a National Landmark. The declaration is a
testimony of the significance of the Church especially its important role in the Country’s history as the general headquarters and military hospital of the revolutionary forces against Spain in the Visayas during the late 1800s.
The church was the site where General Martin Delgado of the Visayan Revolutionary Government convened the junta that raised the first Cry of Revolution against Spain outside Luzon. Its churchyard that time was packed with Filipino soldiers, armed with bolos and eager to fight for freedom.
Framed by the outer wall of the right side of the church and the L-shaped convent, the inner patio is one of the most interesting parts of the church. The view of the church’s yellow sandstone and Spanish-colonial elements of the convent, especially of its balcony, create an ambiance of ancient living and Hispanic life.
Santa Barbara Church was built in 1845 and is of Baroque Renaissance architecture. The whole structure imposes simplicity and beauty. Its facade is neoclassic, proven by twinned neoclassic pilasters and finials. Beside it is the convent, which is reminiscent of Moorish architecture. The interior of the church is neoclassic in style. It has three altars more elaborate than the facade and an intricately designed pulpit in the left side of the wall.
Displayed at the left side of the church is one of the old bells of Santa Barbara Church. Meanwhile, behind the church is a tree shaded park featuring stations of the Cross and a garden of Saints. On the outer wall of the church is a sculpture relief illustrating the story of the Revolution in Iloilo including scenes in Santa Barbara, Molo, and Jaro.
The Santa Barbara Church and Convent is located beside the public plaza. To learn how to get to Santa Barbara, Click Here.
i’ve been scanning the -churches section- of the church… and found this once… Sta. Barbara Church… i’ve been to Sta. Barbara once and i like the town, a very tranquil place…
I’ve read few of the articles about this town in the net… Its hosting the new airport in Iloilo, right? such a potential for a progressive -soon-to-be- city…
too bad there are few colonial buildings here in Negros, compared to Iloilo…
one of the best preserved churches in asia, been there for our heritage tour. love the people, and the place!
I’m a native of Santa Barbara, Iloilo, and I am very proud to tell everyone.That’s why I always go home home at least once a year though Ive been abroad for more than 25 years. long live Santa Barbara! I am so proud of YOU!
Gordon’s proposed bill adding yet another ray to the Philippine flag should concern all Filipinos but most especially us Ilonggos.
The eight rays within the white triangle represent the towns within Luzon that fathered the Philippine Revolution.
However, Santa Barbara, which actively participated under General Delgado, was never represented in the flag.
Gordon and even Puentebella maintain that Muslim resistance to colonial rule merit a ray. Problem is, Mindanao is already one of three stars that mark our flag.
Whatever for is this bill? It begs a timely answer- acknowledge the ” Cry of Santa Barbara” in it’s proper context.
Omon Maravilla
Oct 3, 2009
i love santa barbara…