Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila

Fort Santiago in Manila, the roof of Manila Cathedral can be seen from afar

Fort Santiago was named after Saint James the Great. It was completed in 1593 as a bastioned fort as fortification using Spanish and Italian architectural design. This defense fortress is part of the walled city of Manila called the Intramuros or "within the walls."

Calesa (Kalesa) is a horse drawn calash. One can rent this carriage and tour old Manila.

"In memory of the victims at fort Santiago, this cross is the site of the mortal remains of approximately 600 Filipinos. Their bodies were found inside a nearby dungeon where victims of atrocities perpetuated by the Japanese Imperial forces were imprisoned in the last days of February 1945."

"The memory of all these  unknown victims will live forever in the hearts and minds of the Filipino people."

Rising water in the dungeon was a way to torture prisoners at that time. The cells lie below sea level and prisoners were incarcerated here to drown. 

For a memorable experience of Intramuros, I recommend the Celdran walking tour.

http://celdrantours.blogspot.com/