The town of Taal, Batangas has more than the Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. A heritage town just a few hours from Metro Manila, a visit would surely inspire historical sentiment. A feeling of going back to our roots as Filipinos, tracing our identity as reflected in the facades and corridors of the town's Cathedral, The Taal Basilica, the town plaza and the enduring colonial themed houses in the town's Poblacion.
My family spent the easter in this historic town. We spent the day marveling, exploring and appreciating the fine things it has to offer. From the historic sites and the delicacies all the way to ending our day with a close up look of the Taal volcano on our drive home. This was Batangas as we've never seen it before.
The Taal Basilica and Plaza
The first part of the town we visited was the Cathedral. It's also the main reason why my mother wanted to visit Taal. Located at the town's center, it not only stood as the town's place of worship but also epitomizes the resiliency and sentimentality of the Taaleños. The Basilica has undergone multiple construction and was relocated from the shores of Taal lake into it's present site in 1865 because of Taal volcano's eruptions. And it is still standing gallantly today, more magnificent than before, reminding tourists and locals alike of the strength of faith and character of the Taaleños.
Inside, we engrossed ourselves at it's architectural details. It was truly an example of a Romanesque church. And it reminded me personally of the Manila Cathedral in the way that it also has side corridors where one can walk through and also because of the structure of its altar. Like most Roman styled churches, the Taal Basilica also has in it's center four columns which metaphorically stand for the four books of the Gospel. In it are portraits of St. John, St. Mark, St. Matthew and St. Luke.
But what makes Taal Basilica unique-and beguiling- for me is the intricate mosaic that permeates the church's interior. An ornate detail that inspires an atmosphere of prayer and reflection. Each column and walls are filled with figures or historical markers honoring or giving details about the church's history.
At the alleys, the atmosphere of reflection is replaced with that of historical and cultural appreciation. Each brick and mortar that makes up the exterior of the church are reminders not only of the history of Taal but of the Spanish Colonial times as well.
In the vicinity of the church is the town plaza, where tourists and locals gather to take pictures or bargain for goods. Delicacies offered in this part of town are mostly dried seafoods specifically the Tawilis and other dried fishes. And just in front of the plaza is the Municipal hall and Poblacion. Where Taal's other two known products: The Balisong (Butterfly knife) and Barong Tagalog can be bought and seen.
Taking Lunch and buying delicacies
We had our lunch at Arko De Taal. Named aptly as it is just beside the Taal town ark making it easy to find. We enjoyed a selection of familiar seafood dishes and stayed for an hour. Arko De Taal is also a pub, which opens up in the evening serving locals and travelers alike.
After a satisfying lunch, we drove into the streets to find the town's signature delicacies: tapa and longganisa. My mother had been wanting to try them and they are also a case of curiosity for me. They can be bought in various stands along the street or in the town market in the poblacion. Taal Lake and Taal Volcano
It was my first time at the shores of Taal Lake. And I would say that Taal Volcano is more sublime from up close. We drove by the Municipality of San Nicolas (formerly part of Taal) where the old Taal church was situated. The ruins of the church are still present but the area is now converted into a bay walk where one can marvel and relax at the sight of the Taal Lake.
In the far left of the lake's view, the Taal volcano island can be seen in it's entirety. Presently uninhabited, it still attracts fascination nonetheless. And It's bewildering to think how nature works. Only 3 years ago, this same beautiful sight is one of cataclysm. Pyroclastic hazards ravaged nearby towns and even affected parts of Metro Manila. But as if nothing happened, and as if the Taal Volcano is sleeping, we were lulled instead by calming breezes during our visit, making us have a peaceful afternoon of bonding while strolling along the lake's shore.
In the right part of the lake, as seen from San Nicolas, towers Mt. Maculot in Cuenca, Batangas. Which is another part of Batangas that I want to visit. But presently, hiking, camping and other nature activities on the mountain are still prohibited.
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We concluded our travel traversing other parts of Batangas: Agoncillo, Laurel and Talisay on our drive home. And soon, we were back to looking at Taal Lake from the Elevated view from Tagaytay. It was a solemn and rich easter for us. Filled with appreciation of culture, prayer, and new sights of nature that instilled us with admiration and inspiration. The town of Taal is truly a trove of culture, nature and historical heritage.
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