Travels: Zamboanga City Fort Pilar

Fort Pilar

After our hearty breakfast, M went out with me to Fort Pilar, a 10-15 mintute walk from the hotel.

First stop was to check out the Pilar Plaza just across Fort Pilar. The place was still empty with only a few stalls open selling candles and souvenir items.








inside Plaza Pilar... still empty when we came.

Then we crossed over to Fort Pilar, Zamboanga’s version of Intramuros. The fort was built on June 23, 1635 by the Jesuit Melchor de Vera as a military defense structure against the Moros and pirates.











Inside was the Zamboanga Museum showcasing different memorabilia like baroque churches design plans. We thought the Shrine was inside this compound.






inside the museum

At the eastern side of Fort Pilar is the Shrine of Our Lady of Pilar, Zamboanga City’s patroness. Everyday, devotees would come here to light candles and pray. Open air masses are held every Sunday.

On the way back to the hotel, we passed by Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga’s version of Manila’s bay walk. It was empty during the day, but comes alive at night. M promised to come back at night for dinner and wine.

We went back to the hotel. M worked – preparing for his afternoon meeting, while I had a nap till lunch time. My fever has subsided.