Fort Santiago is one of the most legendary monuments the Philippines has to offer. It was built during the 1500s and acted as a citadel for the Spanish colonies during that time.
Background
The Fort was built in honour of the patron saint of Spain and acted as the most major defensive fortress during the period of Spanish rule. Although construction began sometime during the 1530s, it was completed only towards the end of the century.
José Rizal
Due to his revolutionist writings and the effect they had, he is considered to be one of the biggest heroes of the Philippines. When he was arrested for rebellion he was kept within Fort Santiago right until his execution.
American Colonial Period
In 1898, the Americans colonised and began ruling the Philippines, and took over Fort Santiago. They made several changes to the fort. One of them involved draining the moats in order to construct a golf course.
Modern Day
Fort Santiago is easily one of the most important historical sites in the Philippines and attracts countless amounts of people. It is consistently popular with travellers staying at hotels in Ortigas Pasig nearby, such as Citadines Millennium Ortigas Manila, or any other place remotely close to the fort.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
