[The courtyard of Fort Pillar
The Royal Fort of Our Virgin Lady of the Pillar of Zaragoza, commonly known as Fort Pilar, is a 17th century military defense fortress built by the Spanish colonial government in Zamboanga City, Philippines. The fort, which is now a regional museum of the National Museum of the Philippines, is the major landmark of Zamboanga City and a symbol of the city's cultural heritage. Outside the eastern wall is a Marian shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar, the patroness of the city. Fort Pilar was built on June 23, 1635. It is a silent witness to many battles fought by the Spaniards against the Moros. A witness to the heroic courage of Zamboangueños for their love of freedom, it is home to legions of devotees who pay tribute to the miraculous Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar.
Fort Pilar is now an outdoor Roman Catholic Marian shrine and a regional branch of the National Museum of the Philippines. Inside the fort, only the southern structure is still in ruins; inside and outside the fort are well maintained gardens. The Paseo del Mar, a reclaimed esplanade, protects the fort from the ravages of the sea.
Main Entrance in Fort Pilar Museum
This is me visiting at FORT PILAR SHRINE. Light candle and pray for guidance.
Las Campanas del Santurio de la Virgen del Pilar
History of Fort Pilar {summarize only}
Fort Pilar was founded in 1635 as a southern outpost of the Spanish domain under the supervision of Melchor de Vera.
1646: The fort was attacked by the Dutch.
1663: The fort was deserted when Spanish troops were concentrated in Manila to drive away Chinese pirates.
1666: The fort was reconstructed by the Society of Jesus.
1719: The fort was rebuilt under the management of Juan Sicarra.
1720: The fort was stormed by Dalasi, King of Bulig, with 3,000 Moros.
1798: The fort was bombarded by the British.
1872: The fort witnessed the mutiny of seventy prisoners.
1898: The fort was abandoned by the Spaniards.
1899: The fort was occupied by the Americans under General J.C. Bates.
1942: The fort was seized by the Japanese.
1946: The fort was taken over by the Republic of the Philippines on July 4th.
Fort Pilar has a long and eventful history, having been involved in various conflicts and transitions of power throughout its existence.
Additional Photos bout FORT PILAR that I capture during my visit.
(
