The Philippines’ famous San Agustin Church, located in Intramuros, Manila, is making waves in China! The church is one of the key attractions at the International Ice and Snow Festival in Harbin, Heilongjiang. This annual event, known for its breathtaking ice sculptures, runs from December 2024 to February 2025 and has already attracted millions of visitors.
Why San Agustin Church?
San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a symbol of the Philippines’ rich architectural history and cultural pride. According to Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz, the inclusion of this iconic church is a powerful way to introduce the beauty of Filipino heritage to Chinese and international audiences.
“This festival brings together millions of visitors, offering a great platform to showcase our country’s history and architecture,” said FlorCruz.
A Festival of Wonders
The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival is famous for its life-sized ice replicas of world landmarks. Alongside San Agustin Church, visitors can marvel at ice sculptures of:
- Brunei’s Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
- Cambodia’s Bayon Temple
- Indonesia’s Borobudur Temple
- Laos’ Pha That Luang Vientiane Temple
- Malaysia’s Petronas Twin Towers
- Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda
- Singapore’s Merlion
- Thailand’s Grand Temple
- Vietnam’s Khue Van Pavilion
An ASEAN Showcase
The festival also highlights other iconic landmarks from ASEAN countries, showcasing the region’s diverse cultures and traditions.
Why You Should Visit
This icy wonderland is open until February 2025, offering visitors a chance to explore these jaw-dropping sculptures while enjoying the magic of winter. If you’re curious about experiencing global heritage in one magical place, this festival is a must-see!
By featuring San Agustin Church, the Philippines proudly takes its place among other world-class architectural marvels, sharing its story with a global audience in the coolest way possible—literally!
