Pan-ay Church ( Sta. Monica Parish Church)

Pan-ay Church ( Sta. Monica Parish Church)

The island of Panay specifically the city of Iloilo is home to centuries-old churches with the famous church in Miag-ao among others. But on the northern part of the island in the province of Capiz is another heritage church that everyone should drop by if you happen to be in Roxas City or from Boracay Island.

Built in 1774, it is one of the oldest in the Philippines with its signature Baroque architecture ( common during those times). At present, Sta. Monica Parish Church is famous for its bell. Yes, the bell of Pan-ay Church is its main attraction.

Weighing a total of more than 10 tons, this bell was constructed way back in the early 19th century. From the 70 sacks of coins collected from the locals ( imagine the agony and so-called “Spanish cruelties), this bell is the biggest in the country, in Asia and the third in the world. The great bell is surrounded with 8 smaller bells which are also dated as early as 1822. What is more impressive is that these bells are still used until today .

The rest of the church is very striking with its designs courtesy of the Baroque architecture that it adheres.

The entrance door of Pan-ay Church has a floral designs sculptured with complexity.

I’m not sure who this persona is but my guess is that he is the Pope/ Bishop or any high church official during the construction of Pan-ay Church.

The belfry of the Church with clocks sourrounding the 4th tier.