Parish Of The Holy Sacrifice

Parish of the Holy Sacrifice Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide in Metro Manila

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled within the green expanses of the University of the Philippines Diliman in Quezon City, the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice—often called the UP Chapel—is a celebrated landmark of Filipino modernism, spirituality, and community life. Renowned as the first circular church in the Philippines, its thin-shell concrete dome and open-plan design symbolize inclusivity and innovation. The chapel is distinguished by the collaborative contributions of five National Artists, making it both a spiritual sanctuary and a cultural treasure. This guide presents comprehensive information on its history, architecture, cultural significance, visiting details, and practical tips for an enriching experience (Parish of the Holy Sacrifice Official Website, Quezon City Government, SPOT.ph).

Introduction
Historical Background
Architectural and Artistic Innovations
Symbolism and National Importance
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Travel Tips
Heritage Designations and Conservation
Community Role and Programs
Visitor Experience
Nearby Quezon City Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
References

Historical Background

The origins of the UP Chapel trace back to the late 1940s, when the Catholic community at UP Diliman worshipped in a makeshift structure built from bamboo and sawali, previously a U.S. Army chapel and stable. Fr. John Patrick Delaney, S.J., the university’s first Jesuit chaplain, spearheaded efforts for a permanent church, culminating in the completion and inauguration of the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice on December 20, 1955. The opening featured a candlelight procession, symbolizing hope and new beginnings for the academic and faith communities (SPOT.ph).

Architectural and Artistic Innovations

Architectural Vision

Designed by Leandro V. Locsin—later named National Artist for Architecture—the chapel broke away from conventional ecclesiastical layouts. Its circular plan with a central altar embodies openness and encourages communal participation. The thin-shell concrete dome, a pioneering engineering feat in the Philippines, is supported by columns encircling the structure, creating an unobstructed, light-filled interior (lakansining.wordpress.com, manilanews.ph).

Artistic Collaboration

The chapel is unique for its integration of works by five National Artists:

Leandro V. Locsin (Architecture): Modernist circular design blending Filipino motifs (scribd.com).
Napoleon Abueva (Sculpture): Double-sided crucifix above the altar, representing sacrifice and resurrection (lakansining.wordpress.com).
Arturo Luz (Visual Arts): Terrazzo floor mural symbolizing the River of Life and unity (quezoncity.gov.ph).
Vicente Manansala & Ang Kiukok (Painting): Stations of the Cross murals reinterpreted through Filipino modernism (scribd.com).
Jose Maceda (Music): Liturgical compositions enhancing the worship experience.

The convergence of these artists’ works makes the church a living museum of Filipino modern art (spot.ph).

Symbolism and National Importance

Built in the post-World War II era, the chapel expresses themes of national rebuilding, unity, and academic freedom. Its open, boundary-less architecture reflects the values of inclusivity and community central to both the University of the Philippines and the Catholic faith. Artistic elements—such as the central altar, double-sided crucifix, and circular pews—reinforce the ideals of equality, participation, and Filipino identity (manilanews.ph).

In 2005, the chapel was designated a National Historical Landmark and National Cultural Treasure, underscoring its exceptional heritage value (quezoncity.gov.ph).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Admission: Free entry; no tickets required. Donations are welcome for upkeep and restoration (MisaDito).
Guided Tours: Available by request through the parish office or university visitor services.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible with ramps, wide aisles, and accessible restrooms.
Masses & Events: Regular mass schedules are posted on the official website. The chapel also hosts concerts, art exhibits, and community programs.

Travel Tips

Getting There: Accessible by jeepneys, buses, taxis, or ride-hailing apps via Commonwealth Avenue. Parking is available but limited, especially during major events (Wanderlog).
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or afternoons offer a quieter, more contemplative environment.
Attire: Modest dress is required; avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing clothing.
Conduct: Maintain silence during liturgical services and be respectful of worshippers.
Photography: Allowed outside of services, but without flash. Always respect posted guidelines.

Heritage Designations and Conservation

The Parish of the Holy Sacrifice is both a National Historical Landmark and a National Cultural Treasure. Ongoing conservation efforts—including structural repairs, dome restoration, and preservation of artistic features—are supported by both public and private initiatives. Restoration projects, such as the 2020 rehabilitation led by DMCI Homes, ensure that the chapel’s artistic and architectural integrity endures (spot.ph).

Community Role and Programs

More than a place of worship, the chapel is a vibrant cultural and academic hub. It hosts:

Liturgical celebrations and religious feasts
Concerts and art exhibitions
Educational workshops and outreach programs

Its proximity to UP landmarks like the Oblation Statue, Vargas Museum, and campus gardens makes it an essential stop for cultural and historical exploration (parishoftheholysacrifice.ph).

Visitor Experience

Atmosphere: The open design floods the interior with natural light, fostering a serene, contemplative environment ideal for reflection and meditation (The Post).
Art and Architecture: Don’t miss the double-sided crucifix, the terrazzo floor mural, the Stations of the Cross, and the dome.
Facilities: Restrooms and limited parking are available. Nearby, the UP Shopping Center and food stalls offer refreshments.

Nearby Quezon City Attractions

Oblation Statue: Symbol of UP’s academic freedom.
Vargas Museum: Renowned for Filipino art and history exhibits.
UP Academic Oval: Popular for walking, jogging, and campus life.
PAGASA Observatory: For science and astronomy enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there entrance fees or tickets required?
A: No, admission is free.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Q: Is the church wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the chapel features ramps, wide aisles, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by request through the parish office or during special events.

Q: Can I take pictures inside?
A: Photography is allowed outside of services and without flash.

Q: Where can I find mass schedules?
A: Check the parish’s official website and social media for updates.

Plan Your Visit

The Parish of the Holy Sacrifice offers an experience that transcends architecture and art—a living testament to Filipino ingenuity, faith, and community spirit. Plan your visit by checking official channels for the latest hours and events, and consider combining your trip with other UP Diliman or Quezon City attractions.