The sights and sounds of mystical Quiapo

Posted at 10:58 am December 29, 2010

Tags: Churches and Places of Worship, Travel Tales and Tips

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By Marjorie Gorospe

MANILA CITY, METRO MANILA— Quiapo Church is perhaps one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Philippines. It symbolizes the strong influence of Catholicism in the country. Quiapo is also a place where almost all typical Filipino everyday activities can be seen.

Also known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, its devotees tirelessly visit the place in their belief that the Black Nazarene, a burnt wooden life-sized sculpture of Jesus Christ can do miracles.

Stories say that it could have been burnt when it was being transported to Manila but it remained untouched. It had also survived fire in 1791 and 1929, as well as the bombing in World War II, but due to these incidents, they had to create a replica and keep the original “Nazareno” safely inside the church.

The church is never without a throng of devotees as mass is held everyday. But if you want to witness a huge crowd, I suggest you try to visit during Friday, which most of the Manileños call “Quiapo Day”.

The feast of the Black Nazarene, held every January, is also a must-see event where even notable devotees like former vice-president Noli de Castro pay their respects by walking barefoot during a procession.

It is something that would give you “goosebumps” when you see how each devotee try to reach the Nazareno just so their towels can touch the sculpture. However, the sheer number of devotees also puts you at risk of being trampled upon by a stampede.

In general, you should be mindful of your valuables when visiting Quiapo even though there are now policemen who constantly monitor Plaza Miranda, fronting Quiapo church.

Outside the church, you will see vendors selling rosaries and candles (“color-coded” based on what you are praying for). Should you feel at a loss what to say, there are people who can offer a prayers in your behalf – for a fee, of course.

At Plaza Miranda, you will also find a row of fortune tellers who call on passersby.Right beside the church are also a row of vendors selling amulets and potions – love potions and the like.

All these things combined makes Quiapo both ordinary and extraordinary. It is a place romanticized time and time again yet, you have to go there and experience it for yourself.