Where to go: Santa Ana, Manila

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I was born and raised in the historic community of Santa Ana in the city of Manila, Philippines. As a child, we always tend to hear the Mass at the old church of Santa Ana - which is the first church outside the 'Intramuros'. it was built by the Franciscan mission friars way back 15th century and it is still standing today and have gone through many earthquakes and fires that almost took it to the ground.

The district of Santa Ana; or also known as 'Santa Ana De Sapa'. Before the Spaniards colonized the Philippines, Santa Ana already had its own functioning community complete with the systems of politics, governance, military, and commerce. It was part of the Namayan kingdom which was under the rule of Lakan Tagkan and his wife. Archeological excavations are also conducted in the area where they have found ceramic plates, vases, and many more ancient objects that dates back to the Ming and Sung dynasty which proves that Santa Ana is a very important trade area during the pre-colonial times.

During the Spanish colonial period, the Spaniards gave the area of Santa Ana to the Franciscan Missionaries and let them establish their mission church at the center of the Namayan seat of power. The church was dedicated to 'Our Lady of the Abandoned' or Saint Anne. Today, the church has been elevated into a national shrine and it is being visited by different pilgrims al throughout the year.

Santa Ana is a very vibrant community that preserves its history and heritage. A public market, a beautiful church, plaza, hospital, condominiums, and many more. There are also some places to eat which are very ideal if you go on a budget and still want to enjoy good eats. If you have some time to visit Manila, try visiting the community of Santa Ana where history meets diversity.
Location: Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

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