San Sebastian Church is made from steel and the first of its kind in Asia. It was proclaimed as a minor basilica by Pope Leo XIII in June 24, 1890. It was also rumored that the mind behind the Eiffel Tower, French engineer Gustave Eiffel, was also involved in its design and building. However, this claim was never proven.
Though a superbly strong structure, the church has began succumbing to the tests of time. The group overseeing the church’s preservation and conservation has discovered many holes on the roof. Causing water to pour in the steel frames. Over time, rust formed, eating away on the steel itself.
Currently, studies are ongoing and rehabilitation is underway. It was a great opportunity to have joined a guided tour as I became aware of the problems the church is currently facing and what efforts are being done to preserve this unique structure.
Below are some of the photographs I took during this activity.
