Bohol is an oval-shaped island some 700 kilometers south of Manila. Apart from being the 10th largest island in the Philippines, Bohol is noted in history books as the site of the blood compact between the native chieftain Datu Sikatuna and Spaniard Miguel Lopez de Legaspi in 1565. It is also famous for the odd but breathtaking Chocolate Hills. There are 47 parish churches here—more than in any province in the Philippines.
More than what’s written in the books, Bohol is a beautiful, practically unspoiled place where life is simple, relaxed, and anchored on religion. With almost 50 churches and a lot more chapels, there is no doubt that the religious legacy left by the Spaniards remains strong. Back in the day, the church was often—if not always—at the center of town, with the school, market, and town hall all just a stone’s throw away.
Scroll through the gallery below to learn about some of Bohol's religious sites as well as other breathtaking places you shouldn't miss when you visit this province.
For more on Bohol, check these out on FN:
- Not Exactly Chocolates But…
- 7 Budget-Friendly Bohol Resorts
- 10 Beachfront Resorts along Alona Beach in Bohol
(First published in Good Houskeeeping Magazine as "Now and Then" in March 2009; adapted for use in Female Network)
