The province of Iloilo occupies the southeastern part of the island of Panay. It borders the provinces of Antique and Capiz and is bounded to the north by the Strait of Jintotolo. The administrative centre is the city of Iloilo. According to the 2007 census, the province had a population of just over 1.6 million people, and together with the Iloilo City, the population is 2.1 million.
At the time of Spanish colonisation, Iloilo was one of the main provinces of the of the country. Even today you can still see beautiful examples of old architecture, similar to the architecture of Latin America. The churches built by the Spanish are considered one of the main tourist attractions in the province.
For example, the Miagao Church is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Or Molo Church, which was built in the neo-Gothic style and once served as a watchtower to warn the people of Iloilo of approaching enemies from the sea. The church building is made of coral with many classical and Gothic details. Molo's attraction is the marvellous faces of female saints inside the church.
Another noteworthy church is located in the town of Cabatuan and is is considered the most massive Spanish structure in the province of Iloilo. This Neoclassical church is built of red brick. It is also the only surviving church from the Spanish period with three facades.
The beautiful church of San José, located in Plaza Libertad in the town of Iloilo, is considered the oldest in the city. The church, built in the neoclassical Byzantine style, is known for its collection of priceless Catholic relics.
Another historical building of the province of Iloilo is the building of the Old Capitol, built by the Spanish, which has housed the organs of the state authorities. And on Calle Real in the capital Iloilo there are several ancient buildings in a classical style. The Dinagyang Festival is held here every January and is called "the best tourism event in the Philippines". During this festival, you can see the traditional dances of tribal warriors, who thus honor the baby Jesus.
