The Miag-ao Church in Miag-ao, Iloilo is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as one of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines (San Agustin Church is included in this prestigious roster). Its real name is Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church.
The interior of the church is just as dazzling and steeped in history. If these walls could talk, what stories would it tell! They say the church was more than just a place of worship, it also served as a fortress of sorts. At the time of its construction in 1786, the church was also a place where people could come in for shelter from invading forces coming in from the coast. Some believe that the church also has some secret passages to facilitate speedy escapes from invaders. The facade is uniquely fascinating.
Near the church is the University of the Philippines in the Visayas, Miag-ao campus.