Paseo is Spanish for walk. And Paco Park is the perfect place to take a walk on a lazy Sunday afternoon. I’d always wanted to go, especially after hearing my parents’ stories about how they played there when they were kids. My dad even told us that they played hide and seek in the cemetery niches! Paco Park was actually a cemetery and is the original resting place of the Philippines’ national hero, Jose Rizal. It also houses St. Pancratius Chapel and has now been declared a National Historical Shrine.
It was a nice change of pace to explore the circular park and take in the sights. The Spanish influence is very evident in the architecture, and with the quiet atmosphere, it was easy to feel like we were transported to an earlier time.
We also took the opportunity to visit San Vicente Cathedral, which is in the same area of old Manila. This church is special because this is where my parents got married 56 years ago.
It was a very nicely spent Sunday – quiet, educational, and nostalgic.
mister beebop 