Open AccessTangibility-Intangibility on UNESCO World Heritage Baroque Philippine Churches: the Spirit of Place and Its Collective Memory
Author(s) -
Hee Sook Lee-Niinioja
Publication year - 2021
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Conference proceedings
DOI - 10.26721/spafa.pqcnu8815a-20
Subject(s) - baroque , harm , mediation , christianity , collective memory , saint , history , art , ethnology , visual arts , art history , political science , archaeology , law
The churches (Manila, Santa Maria, Paoay, Miagao) built in the Spanish period of the Philippines (16-18C) exemplify the reinterpretations of the European Baroque style by Chinese and Philippine artisans. Symbolising the fusion of the West with local materials and motifs, they have formed an innovative building tradition. Characteristics of these churches are monumental and massive to protect against intruders or natural harm. The iconographic-decorative Miagao facade underlines the regional understanding of Christianity and Saint Patron among contemporary Catholics. This paper discusses the tangibility-intangibility of Baroque Philippine churches through the spirit of place and collective memories among churchgoers-inhabitants-visitors, reinterpreting sacred buildings.