The San Miguel Church was built in the 1630s in Manila as a tribute to the Spanish governor general who miraculously escaped death during a military campaign. The church also provided aid and assistance to Japanese Christians who were fleeing persecution during the feudal regime of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Since many of these exiles were samurai, i.e. warriors, the church was dedicated to Archangel Michael (or St Miguel in Spanish), a great martyr. The present church, known for its remarkably symmetrical twin bell towers, is built in the European Baroque style. It is located near the Malacanang Government Palace and is a must-see part of the tour programme. In front of the church there is a small pretty square with tropical trees and flowers and fountains, which harmonises well with the religious building.
