FORT PILAR

Praying plays an important role in our Christian life. We can't survive a day without praying or simply showing gestures of our Christian faith. Most of the time, most of us really prefer to go to worship houses just to pray and spend some time with God. Going to these places ensures us of the sincerity of our prayers because we are in the perfect place and in the perfect momentum. One of the most conducive places to pray and to have some pilgrim is the Fort Pilar Shrine in Zamboanga City in the island of Mindanao.

Fort Pilar originally "The Real Fuerza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza" (Royal Fort of Our Lady of the Pillar of Zaragoza), according to Wikipedia, is a 17th-century military defense fortress built by the Spanish colonial government in Zamboanga City, Philippines. The fort is a major landmark of the city and symbol of the its cultural heritage. Outside the eastern wall is a Marian shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar, the patroness of the city. Today, it is now an outdoor Roman Catholic Marian shrine and a regional branch of the National Museum of the Philippines.

The place is not a typical Marian shrine. The tall vintage rocks, wherein the cross and the holy statues lie, bring out the beauty of the past. Thus, you gotta be extra careful because you know how vulnerable the things are. The shaped and well groomed plants, placed in rows and in columns, give you the feeling of relief and calmness because of its aura. The marble made benches completes the landscape of the shrine. Plus the outside atmosphere with the sun, moon and wind makes your prayer time with God grow more in solitude.

Fort Pilar is in N S Valderosa Street, Zamboanga del Norte. I prefer that you ride a triciylce in going there. For me, it's best to visit there by late afternoon going evening because the lights work wonders during these times. Moreover, there are mass schedules also so if you happen to go there by morning, it's okay since there are tents to proctect you from the heat. Plus, the picture taking is also best done during day time because the lighting is just on point.

If you happen to stroll around Paseo del Mar, never miss to drop by the Fort. They're just adjacent with each other anyway. Hahaha. There are also concessions across the Fort and some pasalubong and antique stores. When in Zamboanga, never forget to visit Fort Pilar. It's one of the highlights of the city. Enjoy and have a great prayer time!