Originally used as a cemetery, Paco Park is a park located in Manila, Philippines. The park, which spans over four thousand square metres, is situated in the Paco district. Paco Park was built during the latter part of the eighteenth century while Philippines was still under Spanish rule. Construction took more than a few decades and the park was completed only in 1820. It was built to serve as a cemetery for the more affluent members of society but was completed just in time to house the victims of the cholera epidemic that swept across the city that year.
The graveyard is circular in shape with a surrounding wall made of stone. As time went by the cemetery was expanded and the new boundary was marked by a much larger outer wall. The cemetery’s centre is marked by a church built in honour of St. Pancratius. The gardens around the church are beautifully landscaped. Burials at the part were stopped in 1912 and the remains that were buried here were transferred to a different cemetery. Paco Park was later used as an ammunition and supply depot by the Japanese during World War II.
Eventually it was converted into a national park in 1966 and the damage the park sustained during the war was repaired. Now the large public park is a beloved local haunt frequented by people from all walks of life. The park is open on all days, except Wednesdays, between 8 am and 5 pm. Every Friday this lovely park hosts exceptional local musicians in a segment called ‘Paco Park Presents’.
Manila is the metropolitan capital of Philippines. It is one of sixteen cities that comprise the region known as Metro Manila, and is a highly popular tourist destination. The public transport system here is quite good, although it is also important to have a centrally located Manila hotel so that one does not waste a lot of time travelling. Tourists looking for a conveniently placed hotel in Manila that comes with all the latest modern conveniences can try the Heritage Hotel Manila. Providing friendly service and tastefully decorated rooms, it is a terrific place to stay.
