Antique Choir Loft

Overview

Tucked away within the venerable San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, lies a remarkable historical treasure: the Antique Choir Loft. This exquisite sub-spot is more than just an elevated platform; it is a meticulously preserved testament to centuries of faith, artistry, and musical devotion. Situated directly above the narthex, at the church's entrance, the choir loft offers visitors a unique vantage point, providing a sweeping view of the entire nave, adorned with its famous trompe l'oeil ceiling murals. As part of the oldest stone church in the Philippines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Antique Choir Loft embodies the rich cultural and religious heritage of Manila, offering a glimpse into the liturgical practices and architectural grandeur of the Spanish colonial era.

Accessed via an antechoir through the east corridor of the adjacent convent-monastery, the loft reveals a stunning collection of sixty-eight intricately carved molave wooden stalls, known as the 'silleria de coro'. These enduring pieces of furniture, crafted in the early 17th century, stand alongside a magnificent sculptural lectern imported from Macao, creating an atmosphere steeped in history and reverence. Its recent restoration highlights the ongoing commitment to preserving this significant cultural artifact for future generations, inviting curious travelers to step back in time and appreciate its profound beauty and historical importance.

History & Cultural Background

The San Agustin Church, a 'permanent miracle in stone,' holds a history of remarkable resilience. The current stone edifice, completed in 1607, is actually the third Augustinian church built on this very site. Its predecessors, made of more flammable materials like bamboo and nipa, succumbed to fires in 1574 and 1583. Following these unfortunate events, the Augustinian friars, determined to construct a more enduring structure, commissioned the use of hewn adobe stones, quarried from areas such as Meycauayan, Binangonan, and San Mateo in Rizal. This robust construction allowed the church to withstand numerous earthquakes and conflicts, including the devastating Battle of Manila during World War II, which flattened much of Intramuros.

The Antique Choir Loft's story is deeply intertwined with this broader narrative. The sixty-eight carved molave stalls were created in 1606 under the supervision of Fr. Miguel Serrano, making them nearly as old as the stone church itself. These stalls, originally intended for friars to gather for daily prayers—five times a day, where 'choir' signified prayer rather than just singing—reflect the profound spiritual life of the Augustinian Order. The large, sculptural lectern, a central feature of the loft, was imported from Macao in 1731, further illustrating the international influences that shaped colonial Philippine art and architecture. The loft's structural integrity, supported by two elliptical stone arches, has allowed it to endure through centuries of seismic activity and historical events.

What Makes It Special

The Antique Choir Loft is distinguished by several unique attributes that set it apart. Foremost are its sixty-eight intricately carved molave wood stalls, known as the 'silleria de coro'. Molave, a Philippine hardwood renowned for its durability and fine grain, allowed for the exquisite detailing seen in each seat, which, according to historical accounts, were crafted with fine inlay. Although initial descriptions mentioned ivory inlays, later restoration efforts clarified their composition. These stalls represent a significant example of early 17th-century Philippine craftsmanship under Spanish influence.

Another striking feature is the imposing sculptural lectern, a 'facistol', imported from Macao in 1731. This grand piece once held large liturgical books, symbolizing the importance of scripture and communal prayer in the Augustinian tradition. Beyond its individual components, the loft's very position provides an unparalleled perspective of the church's interior. From here, visitors can fully appreciate the breathtaking trompe l'oeil ceiling murals painted by Italian artists Cesare Alberoni and Giovanni Dibella in 1875. These murals create an illusion of three-dimensional architecture, transforming the flat barrel-vaulted ceiling into a seemingly ornate and soaring expanse, a visual spectacle that is best admired from the loft's elevation.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One fascinating aspect of the Antique Choir Loft lies in its very purpose. For the Augustinian friars, the choir loft was not merely a performance space for singing; it was a sacred area for daily communal prayer, observed five times a day. This highlights a deeper spiritual meaning behind its construction and usage, reflecting the monastic discipline of the religious order. The meticulous craftsmanship of the molave stalls, completed in 1606, attests to the dedication of the artisans and the value placed on creating an inspiring environment for worship.

The extensive restoration project of the choir loft, carried out by the Escuela Taller de Filipinas Foundation, Inc. from 2015 to 2018, also holds a heartwarming story. This initiative not only meticulously preserved a historical artifact but also served as a vocational training ground. Underprivileged youth from Manila and other provinces were trained in traditional construction and conservation methods, breathing new life into both the loft and their own futures. This blend of heritage preservation and community empowerment adds a contemporary layer of significance to the loft's storied past. The restoration included careful attention to the trompe l'oeil ceiling mural, which had undergone several 'restorations' over the centuries, some involving less suitable materials like latex paint that subsequently flaked due to humidity.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Antique Choir Loft offers a profound and immersive experience for any traveler exploring San Agustin Church. Access to the loft is typically part of the San Agustin Museum tour, which requires an entrance fee. Upon climbing to the second floor, the quiet reverence of the space immediately envelops you. The commanding view of the church's interior from this elevated position is truly spectacular, allowing you to absorb the intricate details of the nave, the main altar, and the awe-inspiring trompe l'oeil ceiling that appears to extend endlessly above.

Standing among the ancient molave stalls, you can almost hear the echoes of friars chanting their daily prayers, offering a tangible connection to centuries of monastic life. Observing the masterful carvings and the grand Macao lectern up close provides a deeper appreciation for the artistry and devotion of the past. It is advisable to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, out of respect for the church's sacred nature. This visit is not just about sightseeing; it's a journey through time, offering rich historical context, artistic splendor, and a peaceful moment of reflection within one of the Philippines' most enduring cultural landmarks. The choir loft truly serves as a highlight, bringing to life the church's Baroque grandeur and its deep spiritual legacy.