A Walk Through Time: Discovering Iloilo's Historic and Green Spaces

Hello, Hiver friends🤚 It’s Wednesday once again.. the day to share our delightful stroll stories. And today, I’ve got a walk full of history and greenery to share. Let’s embark on a journey through the heart of Iloilo City, where we walked down memory lane and discover the beauty that blends the past with the present. This walk was not only refreshing but a true celebration of the city’s rich heritage and its modern-day upgrades.

Our stroll took us through four incredible spots: Plaza Libertad, Sunburst Park, San Jose Church, and Iloilo City Hall.

Plaza Libertad: Where History Meets Nature

We began our walk at the iconic Plaza Libertad. If you’ve been following my stroll stories, you might recognize this place from a previous post. (You can check it out here for more details) But even if you've visited before, it’s always a good idea to revisit — because this plaza has transformed beautifully.

As we entered the plaza, the familiar sight of towering old trees greeted us. They stand like silent witnesses to the city's history, but there’s more to see now. The landscape has undergone a lovely makeover with new plantings, more flowers, and lush greenery everywhere you turn. The air feels fresher, the atmosphere more inviting. It’s like the plaza is welcoming everyone with open arms.

But what makes this place even better now? The new additions! There's a kids’ playground, where laughter fills the air, and fitness equipment, perfect for anyone wanting to stretch or exercise in the open. These thoughtful additions cater to the many schools, churches, and offices nearby. Parents can exercise while their kids play, or families can enjoy a peaceful afternoon together. After a long day at the office, employees can drop by, take a stroll, or just breathe in the fresh air. A perfect escape from the grind of daily life.

On Sundays, the plaza is filled with worshippers since San Jose Church is right across the eastern entrance. Though we visited on a weekday and the church was closed, you could still feel the sacred presence of this old church, standing proudly, surrounded by buildings that have witnessed decades of change. These buildings, like the church, have seen Iloilo transform into the vibrant city it is today.

San Jose Church: A Monument of Faith and Time

We walked around the church, taking in the stunning architecture, and felt a sense of timelessness. The church’s presence is not just religious; it’s historical. It has been here for generations, a silent observer of the city’s evolution. The church grounds have been touched by the hands of time, but it continues to stand strong — a testament to faith, resilience, and the city’s ever-growing spirit.

Iloilo City Hall: The Heartbeat of Governance

Next, we wandered over to the Iloilo City Hall, a short walk from the plaza, where a wide alley connects the two landmarks.

This is where the employees gather every Monday for the flag ceremony. Standing there, in front of the Rizal Monument, it felt even more special. There's something about singing the national anthem next to the monument of our national hero that makes the moment even more meaningful. The setting adds a sense of reverence, as though the past and present are woven together in that single moment of patriotism.

Sunburst Park: A Green Oasis

After soaking in the city’s history, we didn’t waste any time and headed over to Sunburst Park a few blocks away. And, oh, what a refreshing walk it was! This park, too, has seen significant development. As we strolled through the lush surroundings, the greenery enveloped us, almost like a cool embrace on a warm day.

Children’s laughter echoed as they played in the park, while others sat on benches, enjoying conversations, or simply strolling by. It’s not just a park; it’s a lively place where people come together — a beautiful blend of nature, community, and peaceful moments. The vibrant energy of the park added to the whole experience of the day, making it the perfect ending to our historical walk through Iloilo.

And that wraps up our walk. We’re looking forward to more walks filled with knowledge. Thank you for taking the time to read my post. Until the next stroll, my friends! 😊 have a wonderful day.🌞