Rizal Park is an urban oasis at the heart of Manila's bustling business centre. Found next to the famous fortification of the Intramuros, the tranquil and picturesque retreat overlooking the silver-tipped seascape of Manila Bay was created as a tribute to one of the Philippines' most beloved and valiant sons, freedom fighter Jose Rizal.

A doctor by vocation and a celebrated novelist, Rizal was one of the leading figures in the Filipino independence movement against the Spanish colonists. Tragically, he was executed by the Spanish in 1896 after the government charged him with aiding rebel uprisings against the state. Although it would be many decades before the Philippines broke free of both the Spanish and the American occupation that followed, Jose Rizal remains one of the most influential figures in the history of the country. This status is amply reflected in the prestige and importance attached to the park opened in his name, which contains a memorial erected upon the very site of his execution by firing squad.

The renowned beauty and dignity of the park's environs seem to be a testament to the noble blood that was once spilled on these grounds so tragically. It is peppered with exotic, carefully landscaped gardens, memorials and historical markers as well as numerous entertainment and exhibition venues. The bronze monument to Rizal that was put up in 1913 is situated at the centre of the landscape. Marking the actual execution site, many celebrations of national significance are held in front of the monument, which routinely features as a part of foreign and state dignitaries' visiting schedules. The monument is flanked by an honour guard 24 hours a day and inscribed behind it is Rizal's famous poem "Mi Ultimo Adios".

Beside the monument is a 31 meter high flagpole which locals call the kilometer zone as it is the point from which the distances of all the other townships and cities of the Philippines are measured. A poignant, life-size diorama show replaying Rizal's final hours and execution is found in the Light and Sound complex on the northern side of the park, serving as a "living" memorial to the fallen hero. Beside this is found the Rizal fountain, the Rizal mural and the Gomburza marker, a memorial to three Filipino priests executed by the Spanish.

The park comprises of three sections: the Agrifiana Circle, the park proper and the section of open field over Roxas Boulevard along Manila Bay. Apart from being the grounds housing the National Historical Institute, Planetarium and the National Library, there are many other vastly popular establishments within the park, such as the environmental gallery of Artist's Haven, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and the Rizal Park and MassCom Libraries. However, the most scenic venues are indubitably the Orchidarium, which showcases a collection of the most beautiful and exotic blooms from around the world, and the Butterfly Pavilion. The twin Greek classical buildings that house the country's Tourism and Finance Departments also serve as an ideal backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Although the charms of the park described here are only the tip of the iceberg, visitors to Manila have ample opportunity to explore its various facilities and sights at length, especially if they elect to find Manila accommodation in the city centre. Manila apartments are an increasingly popular alternative to hotels, and Somerset Olympia is one of the most recommended choices for luxury serviced accommodation for business and leisure travellers to the Philippine capital.

About the Author

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.