One way to see Intramuros is by calessa. These small horse drawn carriages are a popular mode of transportation within the walled city.
The area is filled with shops and housing and all of the things you might expect. The next stop on our tour, though, was what might be the most famous site in the walled city. The Augustinian Monastery celebrated 440 years in Intramuros in 2011. It was founded in 1571 and currently proclaims its pride in a newly elected Augustinian Filippino Cardinal.
Much of the monastery is now a museum. It is impressive in both size and in it's collection. The entry door is massive with a smaller door giving way to the inner foyer.
As we walked the corridors we saw many statues, paintings, vestments and such. Photos were only allowed in certain areas so much of it was not captured on film.
One display on ships was especially interesting to the guys. The models were very old and fairly detailed. For a short while Ken got to be a history teacher again using the models to show clearly how difficult it was for sailors to battle at sea all those years ago.
While exploring the various levels and galleries, we found an open door that led to beautiful walkways and a garden complete with banana plants.
As we entered the balcony of the main sanctuary, we were just in time to catch the new bride and groom take their first kiss.
Before leaving this historic site, we took a stroll through the peaceful center courtyard. From what we saw, this monastery is the jewel of Intramuros.
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