Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is a must-visit place in Laguna as it houses the unique combination of Nagcarlan church and Nagcarlan cemetery.
Have you ever explored an underground cemetery? If not, Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is certainly one of the places to visit in Laguna.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery History
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is referred to as the only underground cemetery in the Philippines. It was built as a burial site for Spanish friars and wealthy Catholic families. Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery did not only serve as a graveyard, the underground crypt was used by Filipino revolutionaries as a secret meeting place and shelter house during Spanish occupation. The National Historical Institute declared the underground cemetery as a national historical landmark in 1978.
Nagcarlan Church
Nagcarlan Church served as the cemetery chapel that used to hold funeral masses. Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery was constructed 15 feet below the church. Today, the church no longer holds masses except for important occasions being observed in the Catholic calendar. It is one of the historical Laguna destinations you can explore.
Exploring Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery
From the outside, the archaic and fascinating facade of Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery will really catch your attention. The not-so-high stone walls are decorated by red bricks and iron windows. The striking arched gate will remind you of Fort Santiago in Manila.
Upon entering the gate, the pathway leading to the cemetery chapel is also beautifully made of red bricks. A green lawn welcomes you as well. I really like the old lamp posts decorating Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, they definitely added to that historic vibe.
Notice as well that the entire Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is circular in shape. Look closely at the spherical stone walls, they are actually niches surrounding the place.
As we make our way inside the chapel, there was a guest logbook where we signed. We were greeted and welcomed by a nice caretaker who enthusiastically gave us a short history of Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery. We did not make any reservations at the time and we were the only ones at the location.
After our briefing, we were led to the door going to the underground cemetery. A few concrete steps led us to the graveyard underneath. We were allowed to explore on our own. Fifteen feet below, I felt a cold, enigmatic atmosphere. It was literally cool going around. The graveyard was sufficiently lighted. The walls contain 36 tombs and though faded, you can still read some of the names. As we were told, members of the elite Filipino families were the ones buried here with the oldest tomb dating to 1886.
When Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery was declared as a national historical landmark, no more burials were allowed and the last interment was in 1982.
Overall
Exploring Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is like being transported back in time. It is a unique and interesting place to visit not only in the province of Laguna but in the country as well. It’s good to see how the entire location is being preserved as it is. Even the tombs look like they are not being touched or altered.
It can be a worthy place to visit during the halloween season. It’s not absolutely scary but it has that ample mysterious atmosphere. If you like old yet remarkable architecture, Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery will definitely not disappoint. Or if you’re looking for what to do in Laguna, exploring the site is certainly one for the books!
Don’t miss Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery when going on a Laguna road trip. If its stunning brick facade and walls do not intrigue you, I don’t know what will.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery Entrance Fee
Admission Fee: Free
Operating Hours: Tues-Sun, 8AM to 4PM
Looking for where to eat in Laguna? Try Arabela in Liliw.
