MANILA — Intramuros, Manila's historic walled city, experienced an unprecedented influx of visitors during the last Holy Week, hosting approximately 2.2 million people. This figure notably exceeds the visitor counts from previous years, including over 980,000 in 2023 and one million in 2019, before the pandemic struck.
According to Philippines News Agency, this significant increase in foot traffic can be attributed to the diverse appeal of the district's religious and cultural offerings. During a media engagement at the Philippine Eatsperience event, Padilla detailed that the eight churches and chapels within Intramuros were fully operational and open to the public for the Visita Iglesia tradition, a key activity during Holy Week from Thursday to Good Friday.
The 2023 visitor surge not only reflected a rebound from pandemic constraints but also coincided with the soft launch of the Philippine Eatsperience, an event that likely contributed to the higher attendance. The total count of 2.2 million included both local and international guests who visited the various religious sites and over 50 other attractions spread throughout the historic area.
Intramuros, known for its rich history and preserved architecture, houses several significant religious sites that are integral to the Visita Iglesia tradition. These include the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, and various chapels, each with its own unique historical and spiritual significance, offering a comprehensive pilgrimage experience during the Lenten season.