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Baluarte de San Diego
Baluarte de San Diego dates from the end of the 16th century, when it was constructed as part of the fortifications of the walled city of Intramuros by a Jesuit priest, Antonio Sedeno. Originally named Nuestra Senora de Guia (Our Lady of Guidance), the bastion was primarily designed to repel invasion. Its sturdy structure is testament to its purpose and has helped it to survive wars, earthquakes and the ravages of time. During the 1980s it was substantially restored and today is a popular tourist attraction.
Before you begin your exploration, stop to read the information panel at the bottom of the stone staircase leading up to the fort. This brief introduction to the history of the site will greatly enhance your visit. Walkways lead you around the bastion itself, offering close-up views of the ancient moss-covered stone structure. Although it is not possible to walk among the ruins, you can get a good impression of its size and strategic importance.
Look out for the three large rings of stone connected by crossways, which are thought to have been the base of a tower, now destroyed. There are also several original cannons bearing fascinating inscriptions with details of when and where they were made. The lookout post is a reminder of the vital part the fort played in warning the city of approaching enemies in the past. Nowadays it provides a peaceful photo-opportunity, with impressive views across the Manila skyline.
The bastion is surrounded by beautiful gardens, criss-crossed with pathways and adorned with lush plants, fountains and an attractive pergola. Not surprisingly, this is a popular place for weddings, family parties and other special occasions, so it’s worth checking before you visit to make sure the gardens are not closed for a private function. As you stroll around, pay heed to the notice warning of flying golf balls, as stray balls from the nearby golf course have been known to catch people unawares!
Baluarte de San Diego is south of Intramuros, opposite Rizal Park. Take the light rail to Central station, from where it is only a short walk. The fort and gardens are open daily for a modest admission charge.
Guide to Exploring Baluarte de San Diego
Top Hotel Deals
Per night/room
9 Dec-10 Dec
The Manila Hotel
One Rizal Park, ManilaThis family-friendly Manila hotel is located in the historical district, within a 10-minute walk of Rizal Park, Manila Ocean Park and Manila Bay. U.S. Embassy and San Agustin Church are also within 15 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 17 minutes by foot and Central LRT Station is 20 minutes.
Per night/room
10 Dec-11 Dec
Bayview Park Hotel Manila
1118 Roxas Boulevard, corner United Nations Avenue, Manila, ManilaLocated in Ermita, this hotel is steps away from U.S. Embassy and Rizal Park. Manila Bay and Manila Ocean Park are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 10 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 18 minutes.
Per night/room
12 Dec-13 Dec
Hotel H2O
Luneta, (Behind the Quirino Grandstand), ManilaThis family-friendly Manila hotel is located on the waterfront, within a 5-minute walk of Manila Ocean Park and Manila Bay. Rizal Park and U.S. Embassy are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 19 minutes by foot and Central LRT Station is 25 minutes.
Per night/room
22 Dec-23 Dec
Manila Lotus Hotel
1277 A Mabini cor Padre Faura, ManilaLocated in Ermita, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Robinson's Place, Manila Bay and Rizal Park. U.S. Embassy and Manila Doctors Hospital are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 11 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 12 minutes.
Per night/room
19 Dec-20 Dec
City Garden Suites Manila
1158 A. Mabini St. Ermita, Manila, ManilaLocated in Ermita, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Rizal Park, U.S. Embassy and Manila Bay. Manila Doctors Hospital and Robinson's Place are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 8 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 15 minutes.
Per night/room
9 Dec-10 Dec
Rizal Park Hotel
South Road Drive, T.M. Kalaw Ext., Ernita, ManilaLocated in Ermita, this hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Rizal Park, Manila Bay and Manila Ocean Park. U.S. Embassy and Manila Doctors Hospital are also within 15 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 13 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 22 minutes.
Per night/room
30 Dec-31 Dec
Best Western Hotel La Corona Manila
1166 M.H. Del Pilar St cor. Arquiza St, Ermita, ManilaLocated in Ermita, this hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Rizal Park, U.S. Embassy and Manila Bay. Robinson's Place and Manila Doctors Hospital are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 10 minutes by foot and Pedro Gil LRT Station is 15 minutes.
Per night/room
10 Dec-11 Dec
White Knight Hotel Intramuros
Plaza San Luis Complex General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, ManilaSituated in the historical district, this hotel is steps away from Casa Manila Museum, San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. Rizal Park and Manila Cathedral are also within 10 minutes. United Nations LRT Station is 17 minutes by foot and Carriedo LRT Station is 20 minutes.
