The Santa Maria

The Santa Maria is a Roman Catholic church located in Conca de Dalt, Ilocos Sur, Philippines.

History

• The Santa Maria Church was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 11, 1993, as part of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines.
• The church is situated atop a prominent hill in Ilocos Sur and constitutes an outstanding example of Spanish colonial ecclesiastical architecture in the Philippines.

Architecture

The Santa Maria Church was constructed primarily of brick and mortar, demonstrating a unique synthesis of functional, defensive, and religious design principles.

• The church's elevated position reflects its historical dual role as a place of worship and a fortified citadel, providing both spiritual guidance and strategic oversight during the early Spanish administration.
• The church's architectural form, materiality, and spatial organization exemplify the adaptation of European building traditions to the local topography and climate.

Location

The Santa Maria Church is located at Carrer de la Font in Conca de Dalt, Ilocos Sur, Philippines.

It is situated atop a prominent hill in the town, providing a commanding view of the surrounding landscape.

Visiting Information

The church's opening hours are not specified.

However, it is reported to be open to visitors during daylight hours.

The church is accessible via public transportation or on foot from the nearby town center.

Notable Features and Artworks

The Santa Maria Church features a unique blend of functional and defensive design elements, reflecting its historical role as a fortified citadel.

• Notable features include the church's elevated position, which provides a commanding view of the surrounding landscape.

Organ and Bells

Information on the church's organ and bells is not available.

Heritage Status

The Santa Maria Church was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, recognizing its cultural and historical significance as part of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines.