Daraga Church in Albay, Bicol
Make sure to include Daraga Church on your itinerary when you visit Albay, and get to enjoy the overlooking view of the Mayon Volcano and the sea.
Facade of Daraga Church in Albay
Located in a peaceful hill in the town of Daraga, Daraga Church or commonly known as “Our Lady of the Gate Parish Church” was built by the Franciscans in 1772, and was said to be as a temporary shelter by people relocating from Cagsawa. Not only that, Japanese army also used the church as their headquarter during the World War 2 due to its elevated strategic location.
Daraga Church is considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines. It carries the coat of arms of the Franciscan order, images of Franciscan saints, and the image of Our Lady of Gates.
It has been declared as National Cultural Treasure on October 29, 2007, and tourists are amazed with the 18th baroque structure, facade, and volcanic stone walls.
To visit Daraga from Legazpi City, ride a Daraga-Legazpi jeepney route and ask the driver to drop you to Daraga municipal hall. From the Daraga Municipal Hall, take the stairs that will lead you up to the church. From Cagsawa, take the jeepney going to Legazpi City and get off at Jollibee Daraga. From Jollibee, Daraga Church is just few blocks away.
