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How Many Years Old Is the San Sebastian Church?

Published in Philippine Churches 2 mins read

The San Sebastian Church is 133 years old.

Calculating the Church's Age

The age of the San Sebastian Church is determined by subtracting its completion year from the current year. Completed in 1891, this architectural marvel has stood for over a century, showcasing its enduring legacy.

Aspect Detail
Year Completed 1891
Current Year 2024
Age 133 Years

A Glimpse into San Sebastian Church's History and Significance

San Sebastian Church, officially known as the Minor Basilica of San Sebastian, is a prominent landmark in Manila, Philippines. Its age not only highlights its historical depth but also underscores its unique position as one of the most distinctive religious structures in the country.

  • Architectural Masterpiece: Completed in 1891, the church is globally recognized for its architectural features, particularly as a premier example of the revival of Gothic architecture in the Philippines. It is notably the only all-steel church in Asia and believed to be the only prefabricated steel church in the world.
  • Engineering Feat: Designed by Genaro Palacios and erected from prefabricated steel sections shipped from Belgium, its construction was a remarkable feat of engineering for its time, making it an enduring symbol of late 19th-century innovation.
  • Cultural Heritage:
    • In recognition of its profound historical and architectural value, the church was designated as a National Historical Landmark in 1973.
    • Further solidifying its importance, it was also declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2011, signifying its extraordinary cultural significance to the nation.

For more information on this historic structure, you can visit its Wikipedia page.