Sta. Maria Church in Ilocos Sur

NUESTRA SEÑORA DE LA ASUNCION CHURCH
Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur

The Church of the Assumption, designated as a National Historical Landmark on Sept. 26, 1982 and included in the World Heritage List on December 11 1993, is built on top of a hill giving visitors a panoramic view of the town, the green fields and the blue sea in the horizon. One can reach the Baroque church via an 82-steps stairway. Two huge columns flank the church façade. What makes the church attractive is its reddish exterior due to the exposed brickwork. An octagonal bell tower (pictured on the front cover) is located nearby.

The patron saint of the parish, which was established in 1765, is Señora de la Asuncion and her feast day is celebrated on August 15, the feast of the Assumption. Enshrined in the church is the Virgin’s statue made of wood in ornate sculptural style, with ivory face and hands. She stands on pedestal of clouds surrounded by angel’s heads.













Source: Ilocos Sur