Cortes Church: Santo Niño Parish Church of Cortes, Bohol

Cortes Church: A Historical and Architectural Overview

The town of Cortes, formerly known as Malabago and later Paminguitan, has a history that dates back to the late 18th century. It was then that priests from Maribojoc began to serve the town, and it was also when it was dedicated to the Santo Niño and renamed after the Spanish conquistador, Hernan Cortes.

By 1880, the Recollects, who had served the parish since its inception, had begun to build a church, and it was not until the 20th century that the bell tower upper register was completed. Now known to Boholanos as Cortes Church, the Sto. Niño Parish Church in Cortes, Bohol, is one of the many Philippines churches devoted to the Holy Child. Other noteworthy Sto. Niño churches in the country include the Santo Niño de Cebu, Santo Niño de Paz in Makati, and Santo Niño Shrine in Butuan.

Historical Background of Cortes Church

Cortes Church dates back to the 19th century, and it is situated high up on a hill, like all Bohol churches. It is a cruciform-shaped church that has become a popular tourist attraction in the region.

The church was established as an independent parish in 1793 or 1794, and the town was initially named Pamingwitan. The town was established later, probably in 1862, and it was renamed after the Spanish conquistador, Hernan Cortes. The parish was dedicated to the Santo Niño, the Holy Child Jesus, and has been an important religious center in the municipality ever since.

Augustinian Recollects from nearby Maribojoc were ministering to the area by 1769. In 1793 or 1794, Paminguitan was established as its own parish. Paminguitan, together with Dayhanan, became a municipality in 1862. In 1891, it changed its ancient name to Cortes to honor the Spanish conqueror from Navarre, Spain, Hernan Cortes.

The church has undergone several renovations and repairs, including a major restoration in the 1980s. The bell tower’s upper register was not completed until the 20th century. Today, the church is a testament to the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. It is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims who admire its unique architecture and rich history.

Architectural Features of Cortes Church

Cortes Church is high up on a hill, boasting an impressive architectural design showcasing the Spanish colonial influence on Bohol.

The church’s most notable architectural feature is…