Explore the Eclectic Escolta Street
Time travel to Manila's former business district where Art Deco buildings meet modern-day artsy vibes. Stroll through Escolta Street, once the queen of Manila's commercial streets, now a hub for cool pop-up markets and funky art spaces!
Top 5 for Manila
Who Should Visit this Sight?
Escolta Street caters to a variety of visitors. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the vibrant murals and galleries, while history buffs can explore its rich architectural heritage. Food lovers will enjoy the local culinary offerings at pop-up markets. It's also perfect for those looking for a unique shopping experience in a historically rich setting.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit is during the cool season from November to February, as the weather is pleasant for strolling and outdoor activities.
Best/Worst Time to Visit
Best time of day to visit: Early morning is ideal for a peaceful walk before the crowds arrive, allowing you to fully appreciate the architecture and local art scenes.
Worst time of day to visit: Late afternoon can be crowded with shoppers and commuters, which may detract from the leisurely experience.
Modern Culture and Influence
Today, Escolta Street is a lively cultural hotspot that attracts both locals and tourists. The annual Escolta Street Market brings together artisans, food vendors, and musicians, creating a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and community. Artists use the street as a canvas for murals, making it a living gallery that reflects the contemporary Filipino art scene.
Moreover, it serves as a venue for various cultural events, including film screenings, art exhibitions, and workshops. The revitalization of Escolta emphasizes the importance of preserving historical significance while embracing modern artistic expression, making it a unique blend of the past and present.
History
Escolta Street has been a pivotal location in Manila's history, known as the economic center during the Spanish colonial period. The street flourished in the early 20th century as Manila's prime business district, characterized by its stunning Art Deco buildings. Many of these structures were built in the 1930s, showcasing the architectural elegance of that era.
As time progressed, Escolta faced decline due to urban expansion and modernization, leading to a shift of commerce towards newer districts. However, recent years have seen a revival, where local artists and entrepreneurs have reignited the street's vibrancy with pop-up markets, art galleries, and community events, transforming it into a hub of creativity and culture.
Interesting Facts About It
A Cultural Renaissance
Escolta is undergoing a cultural renaissance, blending its storied past with a lively present through art installations, markets, and events that appeal to a new generation of Filipinos.
Iconic Architecture
The buildings along Escolta Street are fine examples of early 20th-century architecture, many of which feature Art Deco design elements, showcasing the city’s architectural evolution.
The Home of the First Mall
Escolta was home to the Magnolia Ice Cream Plant and the first shopping center in the Philippines, the ‘Taza de Oro’, which opened in the 1930s.