Overview

Plaza Rizal is a central cultural and historical landmark in the heart of Legazpi City, Albay. Serving as a central hub for the community, the plaza is surrounded by vibrant commercial areas, making it a lively spot for both locals and tourists. Central to its charm is a beautiful fountain with colorful lights that illuminate the area during evenings, creating a mesmerizing ambiance. Benches scattered throughout provide comfortable seating, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful setting. Additionally, mature Podocarpus trees at each of the four corners of the plaza add a touch of greenery, enhancing the plaza’s aesthetic.

Guide to

History

The Rizal Monument at Plaza Rizal was erected in 1924 under the leadership of Legazpi Mayor Crispin de la Torre. The monument’s sculptor, Tomas de Guzman Zamora, won acclaim for his artistry, notably receiving a Silver Medal in Coins and Medal Design at the St. Louis World Fair in 1904 along with his brother Fernando. Tomas Zamora is renowned for crafting José Rizal’s busts in various Philippine cities and was a mentor to the famed sculptor Guillermo Tolentino, who apprenticed with him starting in 1918. Following World War II, the monument was restored and re-erected in 1966 by Mayor Luis S. Los Baños and Architect Everardo Napay.

What to See

  • Rizal Monument: This prominent monument, inscribed with a tribute to José Rizal, stands as the centerpiece of the plaza. It reads: “Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda (Junio 19,1861- Diciembre 30,1896) ‘Al heroe inmortal e invicto martyr, La Ciudad de Legazpi dedica este monumento dentro de la plaza embellecida por contribucion publica de sus habitantes, como humilde tributo a la memoria imperecedera de su vida.’” The translation is, “To the immortal hero & unbowed martyr, the City of Legazpi dedicates this monument in the beautified plaza by public contribution of its inhabitants, as a humble tribute to the enduring memory of his life.”
  • Nearby Landmarks: Notable nearby sites include St. Raphael the Archangel Parish Church, the A. Bichara Silverscreens and Entertainment Center, and the University of Sto. Tomas Legazpi-College of Law.

What to Do

  • Explore Commercial Areas: With its central location, the plaza is an excellent starting point for exploring nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.

  • Visit St. Raphael the Archangel Parish Church: Just a short walk from the plaza, this historic church provides a reflective escape from the bustling city life and is an integral part of the local cultural heritage.

  • Photography and Socializing: The bustling environment provides ample opportunities for photography and social interactions with both locals and visitors.

Tips for Visitors

  • Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon are optimal times for a visit to avoid the peak heat and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Respect the Site: Visitors should respect the monument by avoiding any actions that could damage it and by maintaining cleanliness in the plaza.
  • Engage with Locals: Engaging with local residents can enrich your visit with deeper insights into the plaza’s historical and current significance.

How to Get There

Public Transport

  • Jeepneys: You can catch a jeepney from any major route in Legazpi that heads toward the city center. Ask the driver or fellow passengers to let you off at Plaza Rizal, which is well-known and centrally located.
  • Tricycles: For a more direct and flexible option, hire a tricycle directly to Plaza Rizal. This is particularly useful if you’re coming from a location not directly served by jeepneys.

Driving

  • Set your destination: Open Waze and input “Plaza Rizal, Legazpi City” as your destination. The app will provide the most efficient route based on current traffic conditions.
  • Parking: Once you arrive, parking can be found along the streets surrounding the plaza or in designated parking areas nearby.

Other Options

  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Use ride-hailing services such as Grab to book a ride directly to Plaza Rizal. This is often a convenient choice without the need for parking and navigating through traffic.
  • Joining Tours: Some local tour operators in Legazpi offer city tours that include stops at major landmarks, which may include Plaza Rizal. This is an excellent option if you prefer a more structured sightseeing experience, often with guided information about the sites.

Location Map

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