(Tourism)
Discover the sacred spaces and historical landmarks that define Santa Maria's rich cultural and spiritual heritage
According to the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 or RA 10066, cultural heritage refers to the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations, maintained in the present, and bestowed for the benefit of future generations.
“Cultural heritage includes tangible culture like buildings, monuments, landscapes, books, works of art, and artifacts; intangible culture such as folklore, traditions, language, and knowledge; and natural heritage including culturally significant landscapes and biodiversity.”
Heritage should be conserved and enhanced in order to foster community identity and set the stage for future heritage significance.
Tangible cultural heritage in the municipality includes religious attractions such as churches and shrines that serve as spiritual centers and architectural treasures of our community.
The historic main parish church founded in the early 1800s by Franciscan friars. A testament to Spanish colonial architecture and the spiritual founda...
Early 1800s
Main parish church, mother church of Santa Maria, and spiritual center of the municipality
A beloved parish church established in 1949, known for its devotion to the Holy Child Jesus. The church serves as a spiritual haven for the local comm...
1949
Center of devotion to Santo Niño, covering four barangays with strong community presence
A church established in 1940, dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, serving the faithful with its spiritual ministry and community programs.
1940
Devotional center for Our Lady of Mount Carmel with special episcopal coronation recognition
A diocesan shrine founded in 1991 based on Marian apparition, dedicated to the Mother of the Eucharist and Grace, attracting pilgrims and devotees fro...
1991
Diocesan shrine and major pilgrimage site based on Marian apparitions
Santa Maria proudly preserves the legacy of notable Filipino personalities through historical markers that commemorate their contributions to our nation's cultural heritage.
Poblacion, Santa Maria, Bulacan
José Corazón de Jesús (1896-1932), known by his pen name Huseng Batute, was a Filipino poet who used Tagalog poetry to express the Filipinos' desire for independence during the American occupation. He is best known for being the lyricist of the Filipino song 'Bayan Ko'.
November 22, 1896
May 26, 1932
Father of Patriotic Filipino Poetry
Poblacion, Santa Maria, Bulacan
Francisco Santiago (1889-1947) was a Filipino musician, sometimes called the 'Father of Kundiman Art Song'. Born in Santa Maria, Bulacan, to musically-minded peasant parents, his masterpiece was the 'Concerto in B flat minor' for pianoforte and orchestra.
January 29, 1889
September 28, 1947
Father of Kundiman Art Song
These sacred and historical sites are open to visitors throughout the year. Experience the rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance that make Santa Maria a unique destination.
Most sites are open daily. Check with individual locations for specific hours.
Various locations throughout Santa Maria, Bulacan. Most sites are accessible by public transport.
Contact the municipal tourism office for organized tours and group visits.