CEBU, Philippines - Getting better acquainted with Philippine history is one way of showing importance and recognizing our ancestors. With a wide array of priceless and documented collections, the Ayala Museum in Manila is the right place to do so.
It is recommended to begin your tour from the museum’s top level (4th floor), to witness the exhibition entitled, The Crossroads of Civilizations, which consists of different gold ornaments/objects, embroideries and ceramics put together. This cultural aspect also includes a very informative 15-minute video presentation that illuminates the treasures of the early days. Probably one of the most extravagant item showcased is the Gold Regala (see photo), a massive 150 cm long gold chain from Surigao thought to have been gilded around the 10th-13th century, weighing a staggering 4 kilos (3,860 grams). Another section of the museum that has been creatively presented is a rare local embroidered garment collection (Philippine Costumes) acquired from the French diplomat, Bréjard, and pieced together by Rina Ortiz. A Southeast Asian ceramic collection comprising of different pieces from many eras and dynasties, also has its own corner on the same floor.
The 3rd level of the museum houses the Pioneers of Philippine Art, a fine collection of paintings by Juan Luna, Fernando Amorsolo and Fernando Zobel – an absolute must-see.
The 2nd level is where the Diorama Experience showcases the Philippine History in 60 different events neatly constructed in picturesque miniatures. Aided by audio guides, each miniature tells a detailed story to further enrich your experience. Reconstructing the past, your journey through time begins with the prehistoric Cagayan Valley Life circa 750,000 B.C. until the recognition of Philippine Independence in 1946. On the same level, a display of intricately constructed miniature ships and maritime vessels that once sailed the Philippine Seas sits alongside the Diorama.
The ground floor gallery is an exhibition of constantly changing contemporary Philippine Art, which makes your next visit different from the previous one. By giving at least 3 to 4 hours of your time for sophisticated cultural experience, I reckon that it is very much worth your while.
Directly outside the Ayala Museum, you may treat yourself to a nice meal at the Museum Café where they serve a good range of Asian Cuisines. How about popping into the souvenir shop next door to make a few purchases to take home?
The Ayala Museum is located at Makati Avenue corner de la Rosa Street, Greenbelt Park, 1224 Makati City, Metro Manila. For any inquiries, you may contact (632) 757-7117 to 21 or send an email to museum_inquiry @ayalamuseum.org. Admission fees for local residents are P225 per adult and P125 each for students, senior citizens and children, for international visitors, fees are P425 per adult and P300 for concessions. Audio guides are optional but highly recommended at an extra P100. You may also visit www.ayalamuseum.org