Discovering the Past through the Leon Church

While the various churches in Iloilo have always been attractive to visitors and tourists, the Leon Church has qualities that distinguish it from the other sites, making it a landmark that you will truly admire.

There is very little known about the history of the Leon Church, except that when it was built, the plan was to turn it into the supreme cathedral in all of Iloilo. It is also known that a dozen saints from the church at Camando where removed and placed in the Leon Church sometime in 1786. However, for whatever reason, the construction of the edifice was never completed.

Be that as it may, the Leon Church is still an imposing structure, evoking images of past glories and splendor. It was built in a style similar to the Neo Classical style used in several cathedrals in Europe. However, looking at the pillars surrounding the façade, the design is also reminiscent of the Renaissance churches prevalent in 15th century Europe. The gates themselves are marked by sculptures of Biblical events.

Other features of the Leon Church are the two cherubim standing watch over a heart, representative of Saint Augustine. The apse also features several ornate carvings reminiscent of the Corinthian style, adding to the classical look of the structure.

Going around the edifice you will see some clues as to its original built. There you will see that the Leon Church was increased in size, and that the original belfries had been destroyed, although there are new ones in place. Parts of the church are made of limestone, and one possible source is the mountain range nearby which is full of such rocks.

The Leon Church is in Leon, Iloilo, which is on the west southwest side of Iloilo City. If you are in a taxi cab you will have to pass a highway going through San Miguel before reaching the spot (a taxi ride will, depending on your starting point, cost between 300 to 600 Php). There are also several jeepneys and vans that you can use instead. They have signs that will tell you where they are headed, so you will know which ones are bound for Leon.

The Leon Church, despite its state, remains an outstanding example of the architectural marvels that are inherent in the churches in Iloilo, and yet it is also its current state that helps it attain its unique position among the many tourist attractions in the province.