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26 June 2012

Forgotten Cities: Intramuros - The Walled City

Map of the Walled City (1851)

The Walled
City

The oldest district in the Philippines is Intramuros. It's construction began
in the late 1500s in Manila. It became a Spanish colony in 1571. The nickname
for the district is the Walled City. In its heyday, Intramuros was the
government center with a main square called Plaza Mayor. City Hall was located
east of the Plaza and facing the Governor's Palace. A terrible earthquake in
1863 destroyed all three buildings and most of the city. The Spanish era
influences are still bountiful in present day Intramuros. Recently, however,
the Global Heritage fund has concluded that the district is endangered.

1. Identity Crisis

Intramuros
struggles to rediscover its cultural heritage. There are very few inhabitants
and tourists. Some of the area is blighted and therefore unappealing. The fact
that it is dimly lit makes it seem like an unsafe place. The dark areas may
pose a safety concern. Other barriers to heritage preservation are fast food
establishments.

2. Intramuros Administration

The employees are
advocates for the preservation, restoration and promotion of the area. The
National Government Agency was created in the late 1970s. Their mission is to
make Intramuros socially, economically and culturally vibrant. They have
recovered a variety of treasures that are on display at the Casa Manila Museum.
The administration makes sure that business offices and residences have legal
clearances. The structures also must have Filipino colonial Architectural
designs.

3. Intramuros of Memory

Highlights the glorious past and aims to promote Filipino heritage in a
positive light. It was first published in 1983. The second publication occurred
in 2011. Many fond memories can be renewed and relived. Readers are inspired to
assist in the rebuilding process.

4. UNESCO Recognition

San Lucia Gate

Intramuros was
home to Spaniards for over 400 years. The Walled City protected the Pasiag
River. It was virtually destroyed during World War II. The United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has declared it a world
heritage site.

5. A Good Hotel

The Bayleaf
Intramuros opened in 2011. It is a boutique hotel with 5 star accommodations.
It has three amazing restaurants. Other features are meeting rooms, a ballroom
and a terraza that overlooks the Intramuros Wall. The hotel is a luxury for
tourists. It has been part of the revitalization effort.

Intramuros was once a lively place, but now it is experiencing a lull. Some
people have declared it endangered and in desperate need of repair. Other
priorities have prevented the Filipino government from maintaining it. They
have restored the walls and gates, but other sections are in bad shape. Several
organizations have been instrumental in preserving and reviving Intramuros.
Scientists and conservation experts have assessed the situation. Their approach
includes site management, planning, scientific conservation and community
development. Implementing rules and regulations to monitor and govern
development were adopted in 1981. Fort Santiago, churches, cathedrals and the
Plaza de Roma are in relatively good condition. The Puerta Real Gardens have
been well-maintained and are quite lovely. Filipinos value the city and want it
to come back to life. They hope that it will become a major tourist destination
again.