Montemaria Shrine in Batangas features a grand image of our Virgin Mary on top of a hill in Batangas City. It is a pilgrimage center and tourist destination that offers a perfect blend of spiritual enrichment and breathtaking natural beauty. The statue of our Virgin Mary faces Batangas Bay with beautiful views of the ocean.
The image of the Virgin Mary is also the tallest statue in the Philippines and is considered the tallest statue of the Virgin Mary and the 6th tallest statue in the world.
The place can get packed, especially during the Lenten season, when thousands of devotees would flock to the area and pray. There is also a similar statue of Our Virgin Mary in Q-Park in Cebu, Padre Pio in Bulacan, and The Divine Mercy in Bulacan, but it’s much smaller than this.
A Majestic Landmark
The Mother of All Asia Statue
The centerpiece of Montemaria is the towering statue of the Virgin Mary, which stands at an impressive height of 98 meters (approximately 322 feet). This monumental statue, one of the tallest in the world, serves as a beacon of faith and hope. It overlooks Batangas Bay and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The image of our Blessed Virgin Mary is a feat to behold, standing taller than New York’s Statue of Liberty and Christ the Redeemer in Brazil. It sits in a 130-hectare township 40 minutes away from Batangas City. Construction started in 2014 and was completed in 2021 in time for the 500th-year celebration of Christianity in the Philippines.
Chapel of the Divine Mercy
Within the complex, the Chapel of the Divine Mercy provides a serene space for prayer and reflection. This chapel is a focal point for religious services and gatherings, making it a spiritual hub for pilgrims. The chapel’s design, with its large glass windows, allows natural light to fill the space, enhancing the sense of peace and tranquility.
Scenic Beauty and Tranquil Surroundings
Montemaria is not only a place for spiritual nourishment but also a destination where visitors can immerse themselves in nature’s beauty. The site is surrounded by lush greenery and landscaped gardens, providing a serene backdrop for meditation and relaxation. The panoramic views of Batangas Bay and the South China Sea add to the site’s allure, making it a perfect spot for reflection and photography.
Stations of the Cross
The pilgrimage center features a pathway with the Stations of the Cross, allowing visitors to meditate on the Passion of Christ as they walk through the picturesque grounds. Each station is artistically crafted and strategically placed along a scenic route that enhances the spiritual journey.
Events and Activities
Montemaria regularly hosts religious events, retreats, and celebrations, attracting a large number of participants. Key events include Marian feasts, Holy Week observances, and special Masses, which are often attended by large crowds of devotees.
Montemaria in Batangas is a testament to faith, peace, and unity. Its majestic statue of the Virgin Mary, serene environment, and comprehensive facilities make it a must-visit destination for both spiritual pilgrims and tourists. Whether you seek spiritual solace, wish to participate in religious activities, or simply want to enjoy the natural beauty, Montemaria offers a fulfilling and enriching experience.
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General Information:
Opening Hours:
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily.
Entrance Fee:
No entrance fee. The parking fee is based on gratuity.
Montemaria Mass Schedule for 2024:
- First Friday of the month: 4:00 PM
- Every 8th day of the month: 9:00 AM
- Saturdays: 8:00AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 12:15PM, 3:30PM
- Sundays: 7:00AM, 8:00AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 12:15PM, 3:30PM
With the Covid restrictions, we advise checking in advance for any changes to their schedules.
Rooms are available, and Montemaria caters to tourists, pilgrims, and retirees. They also cater to wedding events. The fee as of this writing is around PHP 15,000.
We suggest bringing your jacket as it can get chilly, especially early in the morning and afternoon. You can catch the perfect sunset in the Bay of Batangas.
How to Get There:
By Public Transport: There are daily flights to Manila from Cebu City. In Manila, go to Buendia Bus Terminal and take a bus to Batangas Grand Terminal (Fare P200). DLTB and JAM liners take this route.
From the bus terminal, take a jeepney going to SM Batangas.
From SM Batangas Passenger Terminal, take another jeepney going to Ilijan (Fare is P40).
By Car: From Manila, navigate using Waze or Google / Apple Maps and key in Montemaria Pilgrimage as your destination.
Location Information:
Batangas is an industrial city with several oil refineries and power plants. It is around 130 km away from the airport. Depending on traffic, travel time can go between 2-3 hours from Manila. Visitors may also visit Fantasy World, which is located in the same province.