Simala Shrine, popularly known as The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, is situated in Barangay Lindogon, Sibonga, Cebu. It is among the most visited religious places in the Philippines.
The monastery is built and owned by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration (MMEA) who serve as the guardians of the place. It was around 1997 when the church became popular and was often crowded with people who want to offer prayers and wishes to the Blessed Virgin Mary. (Guide to the Philippines)
Last February 21, 2022 I was able to visit the famous Simala Shrine in Sibonga, Cebu (south of Cebu City). I took a habal-habal for P200 (back and forth) from the National Highway. It was raining a bit and the main church is close to tourist at that time, which kinda sucks.
The complex is huge and you’ll see green all around. I was wearing shorts at that time (knees exposed) so I have to rent one of the malang to cover it. I also bought a rose for the image of the Virgin Mary. The place reminds me of Baclaran Church where there are a lot of devotees lighting up candles.
The place is a marketplace for everything Catholic – rosaries, images, statues, novenas etc. There are also a lot of shops nearby that sells t-shirts bearing the name of the place – the Simala Shrine.
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