
Plaza Cuartel Puerto Princesa Philippines
A solemn WWII memorial site commemorating American POWs, offering historical reflection and scenic harbor views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Enjoy the view without harsh sun.

Plaza Cuartel Puerto Princesa Philippines
Best Time
Enjoy the view without harsh sun.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn WWII memorial site commemorating American POWs, offering historical reflection and scenic harbor views.
"A moving experience that brought history to life, honoring those who endured."

Book a City Tour
Enhance your visit with a guided tour for deeper historical context.
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's a historical memorial site.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

WWII Memorial Ruins
Plaza Cuartel
Explore the remnants of the former penal colony and honor the brave soldiers who perished here.

Scenic Harbor View
Waterfront
Enjoy a calming view of the harbor, a stark contrast to the site's tragic history.

Historical Markers
Throughout the plaza
Read the informative signage and plaques detailing the events of WWII.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
City Tour Essential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a City Tour
Enhance your visit with a guided tour for deeper historical context.
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's a historical memorial site.
Capture the Moment
Take photos of the ruins and scenic views.
Check for Renovations
Ongoing work may affect views but honors the past.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a City Tour
Enhance your visit with a guided tour for deeper historical context.
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's a historical memorial site.
Capture the Moment
Take photos of the ruins and scenic views.
Check for Renovations
Ongoing work may affect views but honors the past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Plaza Cuartel as a significant historical site offering a poignant glimpse into WWII events. Many appreciate the efforts to preserve and mark the memorial, finding the harbor views calming. Some wish for more detailed guided tours to fully grasp the history.
"A really great historical place with historical facts on it. If you love history, this place is a must to visit."
Macky Darjuan
"This place has a nice view and gives you a bit of the history of what used to be a military base in WWII and what has become of it after it was burned down by the Japanese.
It would have been more interesting if there's a tour guide to properly explain butI guess since it has been burned down in 1944, it only serves to commemorate the brave soldiers who were burnt down with the place.
Whilst here, you can sit down and enjoy the view which gives you a xalming feeling. You will also see kids running around."
M Leah
"I was very happy to see renovations ongoing at this important historical site. There is signage, markers and plaques honoring the POWs who were imprisoned and perished here during WWII. A must see for those who care about history."
Kevin Strahm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Cuartel is conveniently located across from the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Puerto Princesa. It's a common stop on most city tours, making it easy to access via tricycle or a pre-booked tour package.
Yes, tricycles are readily available in Puerto Princesa and can take you directly to Plaza Cuartel. It's a well-known landmark, so drivers will know the way.
Many visitors opt for a city tour which includes Plaza Cuartel, providing historical context. Alternatively, you can explore it independently at your own pace.
While not a dedicated parking lot, there's usually space for tricycles and some vehicles along the road near the plaza.
If you are visiting the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Plaza Cuartel is just across the street, making it very walkable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Cuartel is generally a free-access historical site. You can wander through the grounds and view the memorials without any admission fee.
Plaza Cuartel is typically open throughout the day, allowing visitors to explore during daylight hours. It's best to visit during daylight for safety and better viewing.
There is no entrance fee to visit Plaza Cuartel. It's a public space dedicated to historical remembrance.
While the area is accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and limited visibility of the historical markers.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the historical nature of the site. Avoid littering and damaging any of the memorial structures.
📸 📸 Photography
The ruins of the former penal colony offer dramatic backdrops. The waterfront also provides beautiful scenic shots, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Plaza Cuartel. It's a great place to capture historical elements and scenic views.
Capture the contrast between the historical ruins and the serene harbor view. The memorial markers also offer poignant photo opportunities.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expanse of the ruins and the harbor.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the area.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Plaza Cuartel was a penal colony where 150 American soldiers were tragically burned alive by Japanese forces during WWII. It now serves as a memorial to their sacrifice.
The site was originally a US military base and penal colony. It has since been developed into a memorial park.
During WWII, Japanese soldiers imprisoned American soldiers here and set fire to the barracks, resulting in a massacre.
A few survivors managed to escape the fire and swim to safety. One survivor was instrumental in establishing the memorial.
Visiting Plaza Cuartel offers a profound lesson about the horrors of war and the importance of remembering historical events to prevent future tragedies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the resilience and the importance of peace. The scenic harbor views can also provide a lighter, more enjoyable aspect for children. Ensure children understand the solemnity of the site and encourage respectful behavior throughout the visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider hiring a local guide or joining a city tour to gain deeper insights and context. This will enrich your understanding of the sacrifices made and the historical significance of this location.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tragic History of Plaza Cuartel
The site has since been transformed into a memorial park, with restored ruins, historical markers, and plaques dedicated to the fallen soldiers. Visitors can walk through the remnants of the past, reflecting on the courage and suffering of those imprisoned here. The ongoing renovations aim to preserve and enhance the historical integrity of the plaza, ensuring that the memory of these brave individuals is honored for generations to come.
While the history is somber, the plaza also offers a surprisingly serene atmosphere. The beautiful harbor views provide a moment of calm and contemplation, allowing visitors to process the weight of the history they are encountering. It’s a place that evokes a deep sense of respect and remembrance, making it a significant stop for anyone interested in WWII history.
Experiencing Plaza Cuartel Today
The plaza's location offers picturesque views of the Puerto Princesa harbor. This scenic backdrop provides a peaceful contrast to the site's tragic past, allowing for moments of quiet contemplation. It's common to see families and locals enjoying the open space, with children often seen playing, adding a sense of normalcy and resilience to the historical grounds.
While the construction of a nearby pier might slightly alter the unobstructed ocean view, the core historical significance and the calming ambiance of Plaza Cuartel remain. It's a place that encourages reflection on the past while offering a pleasant environment to appreciate the present.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit