Can't go out? You can still visit different churches via this e-Visita Iglesia
Missing Visita Iglesia this year? Fret not, this virtual tour lets you visit churches from across Luzon.
During Holy Week, many Catholics take part in Visita Iglesia, in which devotees go to seven or 14 churches to offer prayers as part of a personal vow honoring the suffering of Jesus Christ. The tradition can be traced back to the 16th century and is often associated with St. Philip Neri.
While many people observe it on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday, others begin earlier in the week. Some choose a simple route by visiting nearby churches—sometimes even walking barefoot—while others take longer trips to visit well-known and historic churches in various cities or towns, not only to reflect, but also to learn more about their history and heritage.
However, with rising fuel costs, planning long trips can be a challenge—not to mention the intense heat these days. Fortunately, the YouTube channel Thoughts in Transit has uploaded a virtual tour featuring churches in Manila, Batanes, Baguio, Batangas, and Ilocos Norte.
In the nearly three-and-a-half-hour video, viewers can explore churches—from their interiors and stunning altars to their historical markers. It also shows the surrounding areas, including roads, vendors, and nearby landmarks, helping you become more familiar with the places before visiting in person.
The video is accompanied by solemn background music, which adds to its peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
Here are the churches you can explore via E-Visita Iglesia:
According to the YouTube channel, this grand e-Visita offers only a glimpse of the full experience, noting plans to explore more churches, shrines, and chapels across the Visayas and Mindanao. Additional sacred walks are yet to be released.
Meanwhile, if you're heading out to the malls, these establishments in Metro Manila have set up Stations of the Cross for the public.