From destruction to devotion: Albay churches made from Mayon Volcano’s lava blocks

ALBAY, Philippines – Albay isn’t just the home of the world’s most active “perfect cone,” Mayon Volcano; it is also considered the heart of Philippine Catholicism. With over 1.32 million Catholics, the province’s spiritual identity is physically intertwined with its geological landscape.

As a province frequently battered by calamities, its residents turn to faith as a lifeline, clinging to the hope of protection during crises such as typhoons, floods, and volcanic eruptions. (READ: Thirsty Kristine victims in Albay village forced to boil, drink floodwater for survival)

Forged from centuries of eruptions, Albayanos transformed destruction into devotion by using Mayon’s own lava blocks to build some of their most iconic churches. Devotees believe these structures stand as physical testaments to a faith that serves as their bedrock.

With the volcano’s threat remaining active since it was placed under Alert Level 3 on Tuesday, January 6, we look back at the enduring stones that turned calamity into sanctuaries of faith.

St. Dominic de Guzman Parish Church in Sto. Domingo

Located in Sto. Domingo, one of the towns closest to Mayon, St. Dominic de Guzman Parish church’s history dates back to 1785. The church’s original structure was constructed using native materials such as bamboo splits and wood.

That adversity struck just a few years after the church was first built, when the original structure was destroyed. In response, local devotees used Mayon’s lava blocks to rebuild the church with more durable materials.

According to official parish records, construction using these volcanic blocks began in 1789 and was completed in 1832. Today, devotees and tourists can still visit the church to see the original stones, which continue to house Sto. Domingo’s patron saint.

The church’s patron saint is believed to assist local farmers by blessing the fertile volcanic soils surrounding Mayon. Many devotees also view St. Dominic as the embodiment of an indomitable spirit that guides them, inspiring a culture of resilience and faith in the face of adversity.

Visitors can take traditional jeepneys or vans from the Legazpi City Grand Terminal to Sto. Domingo’s central park. The church is located near the main drop-off point for public transport.

Nuestra Señora de la Porteria Parish Church in Daraga 

With Mayon Volcano as its backdrop, the Nuestra Señora de la Porteria Parish Church in Daraga stands proud as one of Albay’s most iconic religious landmarks and a National Cultural Treasure.

The structure features a Baroque edifice typical of the 1770s. Built by the Franciscans in 1773, many of its artistic features remain perfectly preserved today.

The church’s patroness, Nuestra Señora de la Porteria or often referred to as “Our Lady of the Gate,” symbolizes protection amidst calamity. Her devotees dedicated a house to her made entirely of volcanic rock, believing that the town’s patron mother would “tame” the fury of the volcano from which the rocks originated.

In 1814, many former parishioners of Cagsawa relocated to the Daraga church after Cagsawa was reduced to ruins by a violent eruption. Historical records state that over 1,200 people who took refuge inside the Cagsawa church were buried during what is considered one of Mayon’s most destructive eruptions.

Today, both the Daraga Church and the Cagsawa Ruins are among Albay’s top tourist destinations, drawing those who wish to visit sacred sites while enjoying a magnificent view of Mayon.

To reach Daraga Church, ride a tricycle from the town center or take a 15-minute walk, which includes a minor climb up the stairs due to the church’s elevated location.

St. Raphael the Archangel Parish Church in Legazpi City

Speaking of Mayon’s most powerful eruptions, the original structure of St. Raphael the Archangel Parish Church — built between 1587 and 1616 — was destroyed by fire when an eruption nearly consumed half the town in 1754, according to the parish’s official records.

The current structure was rebuilt in 1834 with its altar table crafted from a single block of hardened lava from a Mayon eruption. According to available literature, this serves as a powerful symbol of the renewed and strengthened faith of Albayanos following their most devastating spiritual tribulations.

The church’s patron, St. Raphael, is widely revered as the patron saint of health and healing. Because the church is adjacent to several hospitals and clinics, it has become the primary haven for devotees seeking medical miracles.

To visit St. Raphael the Archangel Parish Church, ride any jeepney on the Daraga-Legazpi route. The church is conveniently located in the city’s bustling port district, a central hub for public commuters and the city’s markets. – Rappler.com