The Minor Basilica of San Martin De Tours in Taal, or simply Taal Basilica, is the largest church in the Philippines and the whole of Asia.
It also ranked as the 26th largest churches in the world, two notches below the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Spain.
The Taal church as seen today was constructed in 1856 but was restored in 1953.
The façade of Taal Basilica of St. Martin De Tours somewhat resembles to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican. Its interiors resemble a Latin cross with wide aisles.
The sides of the church are decorated with small retablos and carosas.
Taal Basilica is served by the clergy of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Lipa. It was elevated by Pope Pius XII into a minor basilica in 1954 making Taal Basilica the third church in the Philippines granted a basilica status.
The Taal Basilica is always listed as part of any Batangas heritage tour or part of any Batangas Bisita Iglesia. The basilica is an icon not only of christianity but also an important historical landmark in the province of Batangas.
It’s easy to reach Taal church though parking can be a problem during sundays and holidays. It is located on a hill along the national highway (not the diversion road) fronting Taal Municipal Hall. The best time to take a photo of the church is right before dusk, when it gets glow from the setting of the sun.
Dominic Rielo Amayun 