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At Baclay Church, visitors can:
Baclayon Church is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. As early as 1595 , Baclayon was the first stronghold of Spanish Jesuit missionaries, but they were soon forced to move inland to the Lopa area.
It wasn't until 1717 that Baclayon became a parish and a new church was built. Around 200 forced laborers built the church using coral stone. They collected coral from the sea, cut it into cubes, and used bamboo to move the " bricks . " Millions of eggs were used as adhesive. The current structure was completed in 1727 .
The church also houses a museum housing numerous religious relics, including gold-threaded vestments and Latin church music lyrics written on sheepskin. The church is also known for its unique ceiling frescoes and intricately carved ancient confessionals. Visit during abundant sunlight to experience the beautiful reflections of the stained glass on the floor, creating a truly captivating experience.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
The church is free to visit, and the museum ticket is 50 pesos.
Monday to Saturday : 8:30-11:45, 13:30-16:45
Sunday: 9:30-11:45, 1:30-16:15
Baclay Church, also known as the Church of St. John the Baptist, has a rich history rooted in the Spanish colonial era. Built in the 17th century, it has been an important site for religious activities and remains a key landmark in Baclay City. The church is known for its Baroque architecture and wooden altar, which is a rare feature in churches in the Philippines.
Baclay Church is located in Baclay, in the province of Aklan, Philippines. The most common way to get there is by taking a bus or private vehicle from Kalibo or Caticlan. Once in Baclay, the church is accessible by a short walk or taxi ride from the town center.
The church is open every day for prayer and visits. The best time to visit is during weekdays, early in the morning or late afternoon, when it is less crowded. Mass services are typically held on Sundays and during religious holidays.
There is no entrance fee to visit Baclay Church. However, donations are welcomed and can be made at the church entrance. No tickets are required for entry.
No prior booking is necessary to visit Baclay Church. It is open to all visitors without the need for reservations.
Exploring Baclay Church can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether you are attending a service or simply admiring the architecture and surroundings.
The must-see highlights include the intricately carved wooden altar, the impressive altar paintings, and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Don't miss the peaceful courtyard and the surrounding gardens.
Guided tours may be available upon request, especially for groups. These tours are usually in Filipino or English, and it's best to inquire locally about availability.
The best photography spots are from the front of the church, where you can capture the façade and surrounding greenery. Inside, the altar and stained-glass windows offer great photo opportunities.
Start by entering through the main entrance and take time to admire the architectural details of the church. Walk around the interior to appreciate the altar and artwork. Finish with a quiet moment in the church courtyard or gardens.
There are no night tours or light shows available at Baclay Church. However, the church is beautifully lit in the evening, offering a peaceful atmosphere for evening prayers or contemplation.
Baclay Church is generally not very crowded, but it can get busier during religious holidays or mass services on Sundays. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities such as public toilets near the church. There are also local food stalls around the area where you can buy refreshments. However, there are no large shops or rest areas within the church grounds.
Baclay Church is generally accessible to elderly and children. However, some parts of the church, like the courtyard, may involve walking on uneven surfaces, so it may not be fully accessible to wheelchair users.
Cash is preferred for donations or small purchases around the church area. Cards and mobile payments are not commonly accepted, so it’s advisable to carry cash.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the church, serving traditional Filipino food and snacks. Popular options include eateries that offer fresh seafood and local delicacies.
While most local eateries cater to a variety of tastes, vegetarian and vegan options may be limited. For halal food, you may need to inquire with the local restaurants for available choices.
There are a few local hotels and guesthouses near Baclay Church, including those in the town center of Baclay. For a wider selection, accommodations in Kalibo or Caticlan can be reached easily by public transport.
Nearby attractions include the beautiful beaches of Boracay, which is easily accessible by boat or land transport from Baclay. Also, you can visit the nearby Kalibo Cathedral and the Aklan Freedom Shrine.
Souvenir shops near Baclay Church offer local handicrafts, including handwoven textiles, religious items, and wooden carvings. You can also find items like shell jewelry and small trinkets to take home.
After visiting Baclay Church, you can continue your trip by taking a bus or jeepney to Kalibo or Caticlan for further exploration. If you are heading to Boracay, a short boat ride from Caticlan will take you to the island.
