MA.LA.
Amazing Church of Santa Cruz
I've been to Chinatowns almost everywhere in the world, but I think the best is in Manila, this is because it has good memories for me. It was evening time when I discovered this amazing church in Chinatown, and I was even more surprised by the appearance in the middle of mass of Chinese dragons dancing to the beat of drums and loud firecrackers that made the visit become special and different. The first Church of Santa Cruz (often abbreviated as Santa Cruz Church) was built in 1608 by the Society of Jesus, better known as the Jesuits, as the parish church for the growing number of Chinese immigrants in Manila, many of whom had been converted to the Catholic faith.
The original structure was damaged twice by earthquakes, and totally destroyed during World War II. The current building, which was completed in 1957, is essentially Baroque in satyle and a little reminiscent of the Spanish-built mission churches. A very picturesque place to visit ... especially during Chinese New Year with dragon parades --- a truly awesome spectacle for tourists to see!
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