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Quiapo, Manila
Plaza Miranda
Embracing the Unique Blend of Culture and Faith in Quiapo, Manila
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- Quiapo, Manila
Plaza Miranda stands as a vibrant symbol of Manila’s rich history and dynamic present. From its role as a central hub for political and social activities to its transformation into a modern public space with historical and architectural significance, the plaza reflects the evolving character of the city. Today, it continues to serve as a lively venue for daily interactions and cultural practices, embodying both the historical depth and the contemporary vibrancy of Manila.
Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Plaza Miranda with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!
Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Plaza Miranda. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.
Plaza Miranda is a bustling public square situated at the crossroads of Quezon Boulevard, Hidalgo Street, and Evangelista Street in Quiapo, Manila. It is prominently positioned in front of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, more commonly known as Quiapo Church. This location makes Plaza Miranda a central and significant landmark in the Quiapo district, which is known for its vibrant street life and historical importance.
Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.
Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.
ABOVE: Many vendors sell multi-colored candles, each representing a different purpose, along with sampaguita flowers and religious items like statues and rosaries, reflecting the area’s close connection to Quiapo Church.
ABOVE: Many vendors sell multi-colored candles, each representing a different purpose, along with sampaguita flowers and religious items like statues and rosaries, reflecting the area’s close connection to Quiapo Church.
The square serves as a dynamic space for gatherings and events, reflecting its role as a focal point in the heart of Manila. Its central location contributes to its popularity as a meeting place and a venue for various public activities and celebrations.
Historical Significance
Plaza Miranda was redesigned and inaugurated in its modern form by Mayor Arsenio Lacson in 1961. The plaza is named in honor of José Sandino y Miranda, who served as the Secretary of the Treasury of the Philippines from 1833 to 1854. This renaming and redesign marked a significant transformation of the plaza, highlighting its importance in the city’s historical and civic life.
The plaza is deeply ingrained in Philippine political history, particularly due to the tragic events of the 1971 Plaza Miranda bombing. During a Liberal Party rally, grenades were thrown, resulting in nine deaths and significant political repercussions. This incident set the stage for the massive Movement of Concerned Citizens for Civil Liberties (MCCCL) rally led by Senator Jose W. Diokno on September 21, 1972, where 50,000 people gathered to protest against the impending declaration of martial law. The declaration came just hours after the rally, underscoring the plaza’s role as a critical site for political activism.
ABOVE: Vendors sell a variety of amulets and talismans, each with unique protective qualities, which are part of Filipino beliefs and culture and are thought to offer protection and bring good luck.
ABOVE: Vendors sell a variety of amulets and talismans, each with unique protective qualities, which are part of Filipino beliefs and culture and are thought to offer protection and bring good luck.
Architectural Features
Covering an area of 5,358 square meters (57,670 square feet), Plaza Miranda is defined by its striking architectural elements and expansive layout. The plaza is bordered by Quiapo Church to the north, Quezon Boulevard to the east, Hidalgo Street to the south, and Evangelista Street to the west. Its design includes a granite tile surface that enhances its aesthetic appeal and functionality.
The architectural style of Plaza Miranda is influenced by the Neo-Gothic design of Quiapo Church. The plaza features grand entrance arches on its western side, adorned with the coat of arms of Manila and accompanied by smaller arches that create a covered colonnade. A larger and more elaborate arch is located at the plaza’s southern edge, near the intersection of R. Hidalgo and Villalobos Streets. These design elements not only pay homage to the nearby church but also contribute to the plaza’s distinctive visual character.
Historical Markers
Plaza Miranda is home to significant historical markers that commemorate important events. At the southwest corner, a plaque dedicated to the 1971 Plaza Miranda bombing was unveiled by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on August 21, 2002. This marker serves as a reminder of the tragic event that shaped the plaza’s historical narrative.
The southeast corner of the plaza, facing Quezon Boulevard, features a 35-foot (11-meter) marble obelisk crowned with a statue of a woman holding a torch, symbolizing freedom. This obelisk is flanked by columns with urns made of cast iron and bronze, which also function as gas-fired cauldrons for special events. On August 30, 2005, this corner was named “Plaridel Corner” to honor Marcelo H. del Pilar, a prominent figure in Philippine history. The plaque at this corner, written in Filipino, includes a quote attributed to French philosopher Voltaire, further enriching the plaza’s historical and cultural significance.
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Nearby Landmarks
The vicinity around Plaza Miranda features several notable buildings and landmarks. Besides Quiapo Church, the Picache Building, which formerly housed the headquarters of the Philippine Savings Bank, and the Times Theater, one of Manila’s oldest cinemas, stand out. Previously, an electronic news ticker operated by The Manila Times once stood across from the current Plaridel Corner, but it has since been replaced by a new building with a large LED display.
R. Hidalgo Street, adjacent to the plaza, is well-known as a “photographers’ haven.” This area is home to numerous long-standing shops offering photography-related services, catering to both amateur and professional photographers. The street’s reputation as a photography hub underscores its importance in Manila’s cultural and commercial landscape.
ABOVE: In Quiapo, Manila, a street vendor sells garlands made of dried everlasting flowers, often used for religious offerings during the Black Nazarene feast as a symbol of devotion and faith.
ABOVE: In Quiapo, Manila, a street vendor sells garlands made of dried everlasting flowers, often used for religious offerings during the Black Nazarene feast as a symbol of devotion and faith.
Contemporary Use
Today, Plaza Miranda serves as a lively freedom park, reminiscent of Manila’s own version of Times Square. It is a bustling space where thousands of people traverse daily, reflecting its continued role as a central public venue. The plaza hosts various events and gatherings, reinforcing its importance in the community.
In addition to its role as a public space, Plaza Miranda is famous for its association with fortune-telling and the sale of lucky charms. Many practitioners in the area attribute their skills to their devotion to the Black Nazarene, the patron of Quiapo Church, despite the Catholic Church’s disapproval of such practices. This unique aspect of Plaza Miranda adds to its character and significance within Manila’s diverse cultural landscape.
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