daraga church

Daraga, Albay
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history

Also known as Church of Nuestra Senora de la Porteria, Daraga Church was built in 1773 by Franciscan missionaries during the time when Daraga was still a barrio under the town of Cagsawa. During the eruption of the Mayon Volcano in 1814, several towns were wiped out including Cagsawa. The survivors from Cagsawa chose to relocate to Daraga who continued to attend Sunday mass at the Daraga Church.

what to expect

Daraga Church is situated on top of Sta. Maria hill above the busy town of Daraga. When facing the church, tourists are able to get a good view of the Mayon Volcano to the right.

​The church is known for its unique architecture that blends Renaissance Gothic and Mexican baroque. It also features four spiral columns with medallions at the center bearing images of the four Franciscans. The exterior of the church is made out of volcanic stones with very intricate carvings. In 2007, the church was declared a Cultural Treasure by the National Museum and was approved for restoration. A lime coating was applied to the church's facade to protect its structure. However, it did took away to "old look" of the church but not to worry as the "old look" will return in due time.

Beside the church is a casual dining restaraunt called Red Labuyo. During the time of my visit (August 2014), the restaurant was closed due to the prolonged power interruption in the area after typhoon Glenda. Electricity is still being restored in the area and once power is back on, the restaurant will resume immediately.

how to get there

From Legazpi City, take a jeepney bound to Daraga. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Daraga municipal hall, where you will find a stairs leading up the church. 

From Cagsawa Ruins, take a jeepney bound to Daraga and ask the driver to drop you off at Jollibee Daraga. Look for the road leading up to the church.

From Manila, Legazpi City can be accessed by land or air. See list of bus liners and airlines going to Legazpi City.

other destinations in albay

If you are planning to visit other places in Albay, please check out my suggested itinerary.

where to stay in legazpi city

You can visit my list of cheap accommodations in Legazpi City or search for Legazpi City hotels in the search box below.
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