Five Things You Need to Know About the National Museum of the Philippines - Pinoy Builders

Five Things You Need to Know About the National Museum of the Philippines

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The National Museum traces back its roots as far as 1887, when a royal order from the Spanish Government established the Museo-Biblioteca de Filipinas. The building went through a couple of rocky years as different offices used it before being re-established as the National Museum that we know today in 1998.

The National Museum then went through a couple of renovations before finally being opened again in 2018 to the endearing public. Apart from the treasures that it holds, there is also a lot to be learned about the National Museum that tour guides might not get to tell you because of the site’s vast history.

 

5 Interesting Things to Know About the National Museum of the Philippines

The National Museum of the Philippines is definitely one of the most visited places in Metro Manila because of its grandeur, design, and its trove of knowledge on various topics. It’s only fair to acknowledge the facts that people might not know about the museum.

Image from the National Museum of the Philippines

 

Here are five things that you ought to know about the National Museum:

 

Building Design

The National Museum of Natural History boasts an American neoclassical structure that incorporates Corinthian columns, an ornate façade, classical ornamentation, and a Renaissance-inspired sculptural design. Architect Antonio Toledo designed the building, with construction completed in 1941 to house the original office of the Department of Agriculture.

Presidential Inaugurations

Many presidents have chosen the landmark as a location for their inauguration. The museum has served as the inaugural site of four presidents, namely Manuel Quezon, Jose Laurel, Manuel Roxas, and President Ferdinant Marcos Jr.

 

Image from ABS-CBN News

 

The Old Legislative Building

Before housing astounding art pieces and other exhibits, the National Museum used to be a legislative building before being abolished in 1973. It used to house the Senate and the House of Representatives, but was later turned into the Philippine National Museum in 1998.

 

The Museo-Biblioteca de Filipinas

The National Museum can trace its history back to 1887 with the rise of the Museo-Biblioteca de Filipinas. It opened in Intramuros before being abolished during the American occupation. Afterwards, a successor to the Museo, the Insular Museum of Ethnology, National History and Commerce, was established on October 29, 1901 by the Department of Public Instruction by the Philippine Commission.

 

The Tree of Life

Arguably, the highlight of the National Museum is an attraction called “The Tree of Life”. It’s an architectural structure that mimics DNA – fitting, as they are the building blocks of life. The structure resembles that of a tree and stands in the central courtyard. It’s an amalgamation of nature and the arts – befitting of the National Museum.

 

Image from ABS-CBN News

 

Truly, the National Museum stood the test of time. It’s one of the best places to learn more about our country, its history, culture, and even its wildlife. It’s also a great place to spend time with your loved ones or friends as you discover more about the country. The National Museum is a part of our heritage and will continue to be a spot to visit in the years to come.

 

Image from the Manila Standard

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