Santa Ana Parish Church
A unique Gothic-Renaissance Revival church in Iloilo City, famed as "the women's church" for its interior of female saints.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Santa Ana Parish Church
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Gothic-Renaissance Revival church in Iloilo City, famed as "the women's church" for its interior of female saints. 
"A magnificent church with splendid solemnity and world-class architecture, offering a deeply spiritual experience. "
👗 Dress Modestly
Respect the sacred space by wearing appropriate attire. :dress:
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce, especially on Sundays. Arrive early or consider alternative transport. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The "Feminist Church" Interior
Inside the church
Admire the unique interior featuring only female saints, a testament to its historical significance as "the women's church."
Gothic-Renaissance Revival Architecture
Exterior of the church
Marvel at the striking Gothic-Renaissance Revival design, a rare architectural style in the Philippines.
Hall of Saints
Inside the church
Spend time in prayer and reflection within the dedicated Hall of Saints, offering a peaceful spiritual experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience the "Feminist Church"
Plan Your Visit to Molo Church
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Respect the sacred space by wearing appropriate attire. :dress:
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce, especially on Sundays. Arrive early or consider alternative transport. :car:
❄️ Air-Conditioned Comfort
Enjoy masses and visits in comfort thanks to the church's air-conditioning. :snowflake:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors when taking photos. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Respect the sacred space by wearing appropriate attire. :dress:
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce, especially on Sundays. Arrive early or consider alternative transport. :car:
❄️ Air-Conditioned Comfort
Enjoy masses and visits in comfort thanks to the church's air-conditioning. :snowflake:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors when taking photos. :camera:
🙏 Quiet Reflection
Take time for personal prayer and reflection in the serene environment. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Santa Ana Parish Church for its peaceful, solemn atmosphere and stunning Gothic-Renaissance Revival architecture. The unique interior, featuring only female saints, is a highlight, offering a distinct spiritual experience. While parking can be limited, the air-conditioned comfort and well-maintained space make it a beloved destination for worship and reflection.
"Attending Sunday Mass at Sta. Ana Parish Church was a truly peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed by the calm and solemn atmosphere that immediately set the tone for reflection and prayer. The church is beautiful, with its classic architecture, well-kept interiors, and the quiet reverence that fills the entire space.
What made the experience even more meaningful was the warmth and kindness of the people. The church staff and volunteers were very accommodating and respectful, offering guidance to parishioners with patience and care. The Sunday Mass was well attended, yet everything was organized and reverent. The choir sang beautifully, adding to the sacred feeling of the celebration.
The homily delivered by the priest was clear, heartfelt, and deeply inspiring. He spoke with compassion and wisdom, reminding us of the importance of faith, love, and humility in our daily lives. It was a message that truly touched our hearts and left a lasting impression.
The church was also clean and well-maintained. We took time after the Mass to light candles and say personal prayers. The peaceful surroundings made it easy to reflect and connect spiritually.
Sta. Ana Parish Church is not only a house of worship but also a place where you can find peace, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Attending Sunday Mass there was a blessing, and we left the church feeling grateful, refreshed, and closer to God.
We look forward to returning again soon"
Nathaniel Joseph Maquiuna
"A magnificent church. The solemnity is splendid and the architecture is world class. There's a hall of Saints which we can spend time in praying. It is air-conditioned but has quite a limited parking space. But overall, a very good church where you can feel the solemnity with God himself."
Christian Lara, RMT
"Beautiful church, the church is also Air-conditioned and it is well maintained. Mesmerizing to see especially the paintings at each side. Long aisle, perfect for weddings."
Christian Andrei
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Ana Parish Church, also known as Molo Church, is located in the Molo district of Iloilo City. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or local jeepneys heading towards Molo. It's situated on Lapulapu Street corner Sta. Ana Avenue, making it easily identifiable.
Yes, local jeepneys that ply routes to Molo will get you close to the church. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available in Iloilo City for convenient access.
For ease and comfort, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area, taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing app is recommended. This allows you to go directly to the church without navigating local routes.
The church is a prominent landmark in the Molo district itself. Its distinctive architecture makes it easy to spot once you are in the vicinity.
Walking is possible if you are staying relatively close to the Molo district, but it can be a considerable distance from other major areas of Iloilo City. Public transport or taxis are generally more practical.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Santa Ana Parish Church is generally free. It is an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter and admire its beauty and spiritual significance.
The church is typically open daily, especially during mass times. It's advisable to check for specific mass schedules if you plan to attend a service, but for general visits, it's usually accessible during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit Santa Ana Parish Church. Donations are always welcome to help with the upkeep and preservation of this historic landmark.
While weddings and events are common, visitors can usually still enter and appreciate the church's architecture. However, access might be limited during the ceremony itself.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor inside the church, as it is a place of worship.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Its most unique feature is its interior, which exclusively features statues and images of female saints, earning it the nickname "the women's church" or "the feminist church." It's also noted for its Gothic-Renaissance Revival architecture.
The atmosphere is described as peaceful, solemn, and spiritually uplifting. It's well-maintained and air-conditioned, making it comfortable for prayer and reflection.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of worshippers and any ongoing services. Avoid using flash photography during mass.
Yes, Santa Ana Parish Church is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment for visitors, especially during warmer weather.
The Hall of Saints is a dedicated space within the church where visitors can spend time in prayer and contemplation, surrounded by representations of various saints.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, being located in Iloilo City, there are numerous dining options available in the Molo district and nearby areas, ranging from local eateries to more established restaurants.
No, eating is not permitted inside the church premises to maintain its sanctity and cleanliness. Please consume food and drinks outside the church.
The Molo district and Iloilo City in general offer a variety of Filipino cuisine, including local specialties. You can find everything from casual carinderias to more upscale dining experiences.
You'll likely find cafes in the surrounding commercial areas of Molo or a short drive away in other parts of Iloilo City, perfect for a post-visit coffee.
It's a good idea to have a meal before or after your visit, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring. This ensures you have the energy to fully enjoy your experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its Gothic-Renaissance Revival facade, is highly photogenic. Inside, the unique arrangement of female saints and the long aisle are also popular subjects.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside, but always be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors. Avoid disruptive flash photography.
Morning light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while late afternoon can offer a softer glow. Inside, the lighting is generally good, but consider the ambient light.
There are no specific mentions of drone photography restrictions, but it's always best to check local regulations and be respectful of the religious site.
Its unique architectural style, the distinct interior with female saints, and its historical significance make it a compelling subject for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanor is important. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to allow children to explore without disturbing services. The peaceful ambiance can be a good opportunity to introduce children to the concept of sacred spaces and quiet reflection.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Explore the intricate details of its construction, from the facade to the interior. The church's history, dating back to the 19th century, and its unique 'feminist' iconography offer rich material for study and appreciation.
+1🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Experience the uplifting spiritual environment, whether you attend a mass or simply spend time in quiet contemplation. The church's dedication and unique interior dedicated to female saints can offer a distinct spiritual connection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Gothic-Renaissance Revival
The church's unique architectural style is a significant draw for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The blend of Gothic elements with Renaissance influences creates a visually stunning structure that has withstood the test of time, making it a cherished heritage landmark.
Visitors often comment on the church's imposing presence and the meticulous details of its construction. The exterior alone is a testament to the craftsmanship of its era, offering a glimpse into the architectural trends of the 19th century in the Philippines.
The "Feminist Church": A Unique Interior
This deliberate choice in its iconography sets it apart from many other churches, offering a different perspective on devotion and representation. Visitors often find this aspect particularly fascinating and spiritually resonant, highlighting the significant roles of women in faith.
The interior is further enhanced by paintings and art on its walls, contributing to a mesmerizing and solemn atmosphere. The long aisle is also noted as being perfect for weddings, adding to the church's appeal for significant life events.
A Place of Peace and Spiritual Renewal
The calm and solemn atmosphere, coupled with the warmth and kindness of the church staff and volunteers, creates an environment conducive to reflection and prayer. The well-kept interiors and the quiet reverence that permeates the space contribute to a sense of comfort and spiritual connection.
Whether you are attending a service, lighting candles, or simply seeking a moment of quiet contemplation, the church offers a respite from the everyday hustle. The inspiring homilies and beautiful choir further enhance the sacred feeling, leaving visitors feeling grateful and closer to God.
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