Once dismissed as a worthless backwater
by the Spanish conquistadors, Makati has
grown into theinancial and economic artery
of the Philippines.he city is one of 1 6 that
make up Metro Manila, with a rich legacy of
national pride and cultural heritage. Whether
it’s admiring the Baroque architecture of the
4 00-year-old Saints Peter and Paul Parish
Church or strolling down the rustic Molave
Street, use this guide on your exciting journey
through this historic city.
PHILIPPINES
Makati City: A Blend
of the Old and New
cityscapes and expensive malls. It is also home tobeautiful
churches, charming tea houses and a refreshing mix of old
and new Philippines
Top Five Places to Visit
- Ninoy Aquino Monument
he famous Ninoy Aquino bronze statue,
sculpted by Peter de Guzman, commemorates
the former senator, who spoke out against
the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos and
was assassinated in 1 98 3. It is built on the spot
where many pro-democracy rallies took place
in the 1 98 0s and 1990s. - Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church
Also known as Guadalupe Church, the
Roman Catholic parish church is one of the
oldest churches in Metro Manila. Known for
its quaint Baroque architecture, it was irst
constructed in 1599 by Augustinian friars,
the oldest religious order in the Philippines.
Daily masses are held at 6am in English and
6pm in Tagalog. - Greenbelt Mall
Greenbelt is a shopping complex of ive
contemporary buildings, made up of
Greenbelt 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, each with their
own unique architecture style. he mall is
open daily from 10am to 10pm and houses
high-end designer labels like Louis Vuiton,
Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Prada,
Gucci and others. - Ayala Museum
Located at the heart of Makati, the Ayala
Museum is a great place to spend the
aternoon immersed in Filipino history and
contemporary art. Among the museum’s
highlights is its collection of pre-colonial
treasures, indigenous textiles and the
Filipinas Heritage Library, housing rare
books and photo archives. - Salcedo Saturday Market
he Salcedo Market is not to be missed if
you’re in town over the weekend. From
casual snacks to classy dining areas, this
market is popular among couples and
families. Tuck into a light breakfast with
a cup of cofee and pick up beautifully-made
arts and crats. It opens from 7am until 2pm.
Right
Greenbelt Shopping
Mall, Makati CityBelow
The Makati
skyline at nightPHOTOS © SHUTTERSTOCK