Because of its position in the past as the headquarters of the Spanish colonial government, the Roman Catholic roots in the city of Manila are very strong. In fact, Manila had been for years the base of many Catholic missions efforts to other areas of the Philippines. However, Roman Catholicism is not a “state religion;” and in addition to Roman Catholicism, there have been many other people of various faiths to have made Manila their home including a Muslim population, Hindus, a small Jewish community, and more. Because of this religious history and current community in Manila, there are several notable churches, shrines, and religious centers in Manila, many that are especially worth visiting. Some of them are:
• San Agustin Church
• Quiapo Church
• Binondo Church
• Malate Church (Our Lady of Remedios Church)
• San Sebastian Church
• Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral)
• Santa Cruz Church
• Manila Cathedral
• Chinese Cemetery
• Manila American Cemetery and Memorial