Custom Search

Paete Church

Posted on May 23, 2007

The town of Paete if known for three things: wood carving, papier mache, and its old church. The church of St. James the apostle (San Santiago Apostol) was founded in 1580 by the Rev. Juan de Placensia. Its Stone Church and its Convent, built in 1646, were ruined before 1717. The Rev. Francisco de la Fuente, O.F.M. constructed a stronger church in 1717, which was later destroyed by the earthquake of 1880. The church which the Rev. Pedro Galiano, O.F.M. built in 1884 was destroyed by the earthquake of August 30, 1937.

In front of the church is a small plaza which allows you to see the full unobstructed view ofthe church facade. One of the highlights of the church facade is a bas relief depicting St. James riding on a horse. Although the facade is relatively intact, its altars and retablos however, has already undergone modifications. The retablos have all been plastered with gold leaves which is a direct dontrast to the old-look of its facade.

It was already high noon when we arrived in Paete, so photos were most of the time, over exposed.

Source