Built in what is formerly known as Bagumbayan and later Luneta, the Rizal Park is dedicated to the Philippines’ national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, whose remains are interred within the foundation of the park’s centerpiece, the Rizal monument. A Light and Sound Complex built on the exact spot where Rizal was executed showcases his martyrdom in a light and sound presentation. A popular destination for tourists and locals, the Rizal Park complex features several attractions ranging from historical landmarks, murals and sculptures, gardens, a children’s playground, and a musical dancing fountain.

Built at the mouth of the Pasig River in 1571 by the Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi to protect the newly established city of Manila, seat of the Spanish colonial government, Fort Santiago was, in succeeding years, used by the British as base for its naval operations, by the Americans as headquarters for its army and by the Japanese to encarcerate prisoners. Today it is a historical park that preserves remnants of a colonial past. Visitors can take a scenic walk in the gardens, plazas and fountains, examine the memorabilia of the national hero at the Rizal Shrine or enjoy a performance in its open-air theaters.

The National Museum Complex in Manila is housed in two structures of historical significance. The National Art Gallery, in what used to be the Legislative Building, showcases masterpieces of Philippine art from the 17th to the 20th century, and modern and contemporary art of the 20th to the 21st centuries by foremost Filipino painters and visual artists. The Museum of the Filipino People, in what used to be the Finance Building, presents the country’s origins, rich history and cultural heritage.

Opened in 1959, the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden is home to over 100 species of animal including exotic species as tigers, civets and monitor lizards. It also houses indigenous species such as the bearcat. Its most famous resident Mali, an Asian elephant, draws crowds both young and old. The zoo stands on a 5.5 hectare property in Malate. A recent development at Manila Zoo is the 3,000 square meter Kinder Zoo. Its child-friendly design allows children to interact with animals. The attractions include a butterfly sanctuary, hanging bridge, flamingo pond and petting zoo.

Officially named the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, the more popularly known Quiapo Church houses the life-sized image of the Black Nazarene, revered for miraculous healing and answered prayers. Pilgrims flock to the church daily but the church is packed on Fridays, the day of the Lord of the Black Nazarene when devotees participate in the mass, pray the novena and have confession. On its feast day celebrated on January 9, the image of the Black Nazarene leaves the church for a procession around the Quiapo district amid throngs of devotees.

As the Philippines’ first world-class marine theme park, the Manila Ocean Park offers impressive visual displays of marine life and interactive attractions including encounters with underwater creatures. Among these is the Oceanarium which features 14,000 creatures from 277 species indigenous to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. After spending time learning about undersea life, visitors can experience a different level of pampering at the Fish Spa, find great buys at the park’s shopping establishments or enjoy a satisfying meal in its restaurants.