Molo Church St. Anne Parish
Iloilo City's iconic "feminist church," a Neo-Gothic marvel with a unique collection of female saint statues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Molo Church St. Anne Parish
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iloilo City's iconic "feminist church," a Neo-Gothic marvel with a unique collection of female saint statues.
"A must-visit for its unique "feminist" identity and stunning Neo-Gothic architecture."
Dress Respectfully
As it's an active church, dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:
Capture the Evening Glow
The church is beautifully lit at night, offering a different, magical perspective. :sparkles:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The "Feminist Church" Interior
Inside the church
Marvel at the 16 statues of female saints lining the church, a unique tribute to women's strength and influence.
Neo-Gothic Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire the striking white-coral facade and Gothic-Renaissance design, a testament to Spanish colonial architecture.
St. Anne Parish Church Facade
Exterior
The iconic white-coral facade stands as a beautiful example of colonial design, often illuminated at night.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the "Feminist Church"
+1Plan Your Visit Around Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Respectfully
As it's an active church, dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:
Capture the Evening Glow
The church is beautifully lit at night, offering a different, magical perspective. :sparkles:
Combine with Molo Mansion
It's conveniently located opposite Molo Mansion, making it easy to visit both historical sites. :housewithgarden:
Learn the History
Understand its "feminist church" nickname and its significance in Philippine history. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Respectfully
As it's an active church, dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray:
Capture the Evening Glow
The church is beautifully lit at night, offering a different, magical perspective. :sparkles:
Combine with Molo Mansion
It's conveniently located opposite Molo Mansion, making it easy to visit both historical sites. :housewithgarden:
Learn the History
Understand its "feminist church" nickname and its significance in Philippine history. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Molo Church for its unique "feminist" identity, architectural beauty, and historical significance. Many appreciate the distinct feature of female saint statues and the striking Neo-Gothic design. Some note that it's a functioning parish, so respectful attire and behavior are important, and occasional events might affect access.
"Santa Ana Parish Church, commonly known as Molo Church, is a Spanish neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church located in the district of Molo in Iloilo City, in the Philippines. It is under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Jaro. The church is recognized as "the women's church" or "the feminist church" because it only features images of female saints inside, including Saint Anne, the patron saint of Molo. The National Historical Institute declared it a national landmark in 1992"
Owens Besabe
"This is a pretty church directly opposite Molo Mansion. It has a Gothic design with heavy influences from Classicism. It's known for having statues of only female saints, although there is a statue of the Archangel Michael near the entrance, so I don't know if that counts.
There was a wedding on the day I visited, so sadly I was not about to get closer to the altar. From a distance, it's possible to see that the Gothic reredo has the church's patroness, Saint Anne, , along with statues of the Virgin with Child and the Holy Trinity."
Chung H
"As the parish priest explained, this is a feminist church, all saints inside the church are women. It was dedicated to all the strong women of the community when it was built. The streets around it are named after male saints, signifying how the men protect the women in their town."
Janjan Labra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a jeepney heading to Molo from various points in Iloilo City. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available and offer a direct route.
Yes, Molo Church is easily accessible by public transport, primarily via jeepneys that frequent the Molo district.
For tourists, a taxi or ride-sharing app is often the most convenient and comfortable way to reach Molo Church directly.
Limited street parking is usually available near the church, but it can be challenging during peak hours or events.
If you are visiting Molo Mansion, it's a very short walk across the street to Molo Church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Molo Church is a functioning parish and generally free to enter. Donations are welcome to help with its upkeep.
Visiting hours typically align with mass schedules and general church opening times. It's best to check locally or visit during daylight hours.
Yes, Molo Church holds regular masses. Attending mass is a great way to experience the church's spiritual significance.
No, tickets are not required for general visiting. It's a public place of worship.
Yes, Molo Church is typically open on weekends to accommodate worshippers and visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Molo Church, but it's important to be respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash photography.
The exterior facade, especially during golden hour or when illuminated at night, is very photogenic. The interior with the female saint statues is also a unique photo opportunity.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around religious sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Be mindful of ongoing services and avoid intrusive photography. Respect the sanctity of the place.
Late afternoons offer beautiful natural light, while evenings provide a dramatic illuminated view of the church.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
It's famously known as the "feminist church" because all the statues inside are of female saints, a rare feature in Catholic churches. +1
Molo Church was constructed starting in 1831 and completed in 1888.
The church features a distinctive Spanish Neo-Gothic architectural style with influences from Classicism.
Yes, Molo Church was declared a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute in 1992.
The church is dedicated to Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary and the maternal grandmother of Jesus Christ.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit engaging by turning it into a mini-scavenger hunt to find all the female saints. The church's proximity to Molo Mansion also makes it a convenient stop for a family outing, combining historical exploration with a pleasant stroll. Remember to dress modestly and explain the importance of quiet behavior inside a place of worship.
🏛️ History Buffs
The "feminist church" aspect is a key historical narrative. Research the context behind this design choice and its implications for gender representation in religious spaces during the Spanish colonial era. Consider visiting Molo Mansion nearby to further immerse yourself in the historical district.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The "Feminist Church" - A Unique Legacy
The dedication to Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary, further emphasizes this female-centric theme. The church's construction began in 1831 and was completed in 1888, showcasing a blend of Spanish Neo-Gothic architecture with classical influences. Its white-coral facade is a striking visual, and the interior's arrangement of female saints is a powerful statement that continues to resonate today.
This historical and cultural significance led to its recognition as a National Historical Landmark in 1992. Visiting Molo Church offers not just an architectural marvel but also a glimpse into a unique aspect of religious and social history in the Philippines.
Architectural Marvels and Photographic Opportunities
For photography enthusiasts, Molo Church offers numerous compelling angles. The facade is particularly striking during the golden hour, when the sunlight casts a warm glow. At night, the church is often illuminated, creating a dramatic and romantic ambiance perfect for evening shots.
Inside, the arrangement of the 16 female saint statues provides a unique and thought-provoking subject for photographs, capturing the essence of its "feminist church" identity. Visitors are encouraged to capture the beauty of Molo Church, but always with respect for its role as an active place of worship. Mindful photography, especially during services, ensures that the experience remains positive for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit