Santa Maria Church

The Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of the Assumption, affectionately referred to as the Santa Maria Church, stands as a testament to both architectural grandeur and spiritual significance. Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, this revered sanctuary beckons pilgrims and visitors alike with its timeless charm and profound historical legacy. With its intricate façade, adorned with ornate carvings and intricate details, the church captivates the eye and stirs the soul. Stepping through its hallowed doors, one is enveloped in an atmosphere of reverence and tranquility, where the echoes of prayers past seem to linger in the air. Whether seeking solace in prayer, marveling at its awe-inspiring architecture, or simply immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of faith and tradition, the Santa Maria Church offers an experience that transcends time and speaks to the depths of the human spirit.

I simply love the simplicity of this church. It looks massive on the outside. The views on the surrounding areas are just fabulous. The site is well maintained. Thank goodness it is not heavily promoted by the Philippines Department of Tourism. There was only one other visitor during my visit.

A restored Spanish-era Catholic church with NHC marker built a top of a hill thus offers a view of green terrain below. Becoming popular to tourists as a short stop destination for its historical architecture, hence can be a bit crowded on weekends/sundays and holidays. For true-blue Caths this is nice destination for the visita series; mass is in Ilocano tho; easily accessible from the main hi-way with limited parking space within church premises.

D gradiose church i've ever visited🙏🏻no wonder my father requested to pass by there🙏🏻last april 9, 2024👍ideal for wedding😊

A must visit place!!

We manage to get there during the golden hour, and the view overlooking the town was spectacular 🤩

No doubt that this is a UNESCO heritage site. The old structure of the church is fascinating and gives you Spanish era feels. It is comparable to Macau's St. Paul Church. The area is large that we were not able to explore it. There's even medium-sized outdoor chapel at the church's entrance.

There are souvenir items and candles sold outside the church. There's also a tourist assistance desk where you can inquire.

I'm biased but yeah it's a beautiful church. One of the oldest and best I have ever seen. Plus my ancestors are the last ones to be buried in that church so it means a lot to me.

unlike most Spanish churches, this one would require you to climb up the top of a hill where it's located, and on one side you'd see a narrow road that leads to a cemetery. nevertheless, the place is nice especially if you're fond of visiting historical places

A UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason.

Peace and serenity. A beautiful place atop a hill.

Beautiful church with great history

Beautiful old church constructed during part of Spain colony. Located at higher which exposed the beautil town of Sta. Maria. At the back will be the old ruins of another church.

A UNESCO World heritage site. The church is extremely gorgeous. Great architecture, beautiful scenery overlooking the town. Captivating indeed

Historical and UNESCO World Heritage site in Ilocos Sur. Serene and peaceful. View of the city can be seen from the top.

Sta Maria Church is a church where people who appreciates history will be able to be interested in. The church is a 16th century Catholic church built to theoretically withstand earthquakes. Located on top a hill. This large masterpiece can be visited by opting for the famous stairs going there or simply take the road for your car to.yhe parking grounds beside the church.

If you stop by Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, you should not miss this church. It sits on top of a hill and the highest point of the town. The staircases to the church is wonderful to view. The red bricks are magnificent because it's really old. The stone pathways and the architecture have good patterns that'll make your photos amazing!

Baroque and UNESCO Church that solidifies both faith and belief. The site that endeared the Ilocanos to my heart and made me shed tears as a Catholic. I can walk that stairs to the aisle anytime. They badly need support as the roofs were destroyed a few years back and badly need repairs.

One of two Unesco Heritage churches in the north. It shows that religious practices have been deeply ingrained in the daily life of Filipinos dating back to the Spanish times. This beautiful church is a long lasting place of worship.

Both locals and balikbayans should not miss this when in Ilocos.

for your reference my dear co-tour guides :)

A must try church during visita iglesia.