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Within Intramuros, Fort Santiago is one of the most impressive structures of the walled city. The mighty fort was constructed in 1571 and is the oldest Spanish Fort is in the country though it was originally where a Muslim kingdom was settled before the Spaniards destroyed it. Fort Santiago served as a defense fortress along the spice trade routes. The Americans used the Fort as their headquarters in the Philippines during World War II but were turned into a prison by the Japanese who seized it. Today, the Philippine National Parks Development Committee manages Fort Santiago. Visitors can explore the grounds and ruins, including an on-site museum dedicated to the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, who was executed by the Japanese there. Fort Santiago is open daily, offers guided and self-guided tours, and is easily accessible by taxi.
Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila, Philippines
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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