This year, we visited seven churches in Laguna for our yearly Visita Iglesia practice during Holy Week. This is my second time doing it there; the first time was in 2018. Laguna is home to the old and beautiful churches under the Diocese of San Pablo.

Here are the 7 beautiful historical churches we have visited in Laguna:

1. St. Bartholomew the Apostle Church, Nagcarlan, Laguna

The Nagcarlan Church has undergone several renovations, yet its centuries-old charm persists. This charm is apparent in its rustic stone and brick facade. Inside, vintage tile designs line the aisles, guiding worshipers toward magnificent golden altarpieces. Notably, the bell tower, with its crenelations inspired by Muslim architecture, holds one of the nation’s oldest church bells.

2. St. John the Baptist Church, Liliw, Laguna

Liliw stands as a charming town adorned with the meticulously maintained historical Saint John the Baptist Church. The impeccably preserved red-brick baroque structure dates back to the mid-1600s.

3. St. Mary Magdalene Church, Magdalena, Laguna

In 1820, when Magdalena gained independence from Majayjay, a wooden church was constructed. Later, in 1829, construction began on the current Baroque church. It is made of adobe and sandstone. Its four-level, square-based octagonal bell tower was completed in 1861. The shrine of Emilio Jacinto is within the church’s convent. It marks the spot where his blood dripped during the battle at Maimpis River. Despite over a century passing, Magdaleños believe the stains have endured, remaining visible.

4. San Sebastian Church, Lumban, Laguna

When it was built in 1600, the San Sebastian Parish Church became Laguna’s inaugural stone church, overseen by Franciscan missionaries. Familiarly referred to as Lumban Church, it boasts a bell tower and a three-story facade.

5. St. John the Baptist Church, Kalayaan, Laguna

Established in 1669, the St. John the Baptist Parish Church stands as a Baroque stone church. Diverging from the typical placement of Spanish colonial-era churches, it was not constructed on the town plaza. Instead, it was built in Barrio Longos, situated at a distance from the town center.

6. Saint James the Apostle Church, Paete, Laguna

Originally constructed in 1646, Paete Church endured numerous destructive earthquakes. It went through subsequent restorations. Now, it is a historical and robust brick edifice. Within its sturdy walls, it securely preserves four centuries-old paintings, declared as National Cultural Treasures. Among these artworks, three were crafted by Paete native Jose Luciano Dans. The fourth, the oldest, was created by an unknown artist and is situated near the altar.

7. St. Peter of Alcantara Church, Pakil, Laguna

Nestled at the foothills of the Sierra Madre, Pakil is situated along the shores of Laguna Lake. Its picturesque town center is framed by lush mountains, providing a stunning backdrop to the weathered charm of Pakil Church. The church, with its cream-colored exterior, resembles a rusting metal structure or a grand house crafted from aged wood.