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San Sebastian Church in Manila, Philippines, stands as an architectural gem with a history deeply intertwined with Spanish colonial influences and a potential French connection. Constructed in the late 19th century, it is renowned for its distinctive Gothic Revival architecture, characterized by intricate steelwork and ornate detailing.
Designed by Spanish architect Genaro Palacios, the church's construction was initiated in 1877 and completed in 1891. However, the intriguing twist to its story lies in the possibility of a French connection. Gustave Eiffel, renowned for designing the Eiffel Tower, indirectly contributed to San Sebastian Church's unique structure. It is said that Palacios collaborated with Eiffel or his company during the church's construction, utilizing pre-fabricated steel components.
The steel framework of San Sebastian Church, including its nave and transept, was reportedly supplied by the French engineering firm Société Anonyme des Ateliers de la Lorraine. This connection introduces an international dimension to the church's architectural heritage, as Eiffel's influence permeates its design through the innovative use of prefabricated metal.
The inclusion of steel marked a departure from traditional construction materials in the Philippines at the time. The steel components not only provided structural integrity but also facilitated faster assembly. This fusion of Spanish design principles with French engineering advancements resulted in an awe-inspiring monument, defying architectural norms of its era.
Despite various challenges, including damage during World War II, the church has endured and undergone restoration efforts, preserving its historical and cultural significance. The enduring mystery of the French connection adds an air of fascination to San Sebastian Church, inviting visitors to explore its grandeur and contemplate the international collaboration that may have played a role in shaping this iconic structure. Today, the church stands not only as a testament to Philippine resilience but also as a symbol of cross-cultural influence, where Spanish and French elements converge to create a masterpiece that transcends time and borders.
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The Philippines are an archipelago of more than seven thousand islands off the southeast coast of Asia. Only half of these islands have been named and roughly one thousand are inhabited. Look at how beautiful they are! People first arrived here from the mainland around 25,000 B.C. by crossing a land bridge which existed at the time.The name comes from Ferdinand Magellan of Portugal, who explored the Philippines in 1521. He claimed them in service of Spain, naming them after Prince Philip. Spain controlled the Philippines for the next 350 years until the Philippine Revolution of 1896.Here's a picture of Fort Santiago, where the national hero Jose Rizal was imprisoned prior to his execution. He was a poet and novelist who supported peaceful reform, rather than violent revolution, against the Spanish government.This is one of poems in which he describes the creation of the world, as a gift to his mother:"Say they that tell of the world, the first dawn of the sun, the first kiss that his bosom inflamed, when thousands of beings surged out of nothing, and peopled the depths, and to the heights mounted, to wherever his fecund kiss was implanted"Violent revolution broke out anyway and the Philippines changed hands from Spanish, to American, to Japanese control over the next fifty years. Following World War Two they finally became an independent republic.Back to the beautiful ocean! You can dream about the Cafe Del Mar resort next time you find your screen saver kicking in when you're still sitting at the desk staring blankly. There's a series of DJ mixes with this title but I don't know if it refers to the same place. I would not be surprised.Annnnd to really get you buying your plane tickets...the sunset over Borocay White Beach!Text by Steve Smith.
