Reconnecting the walls of Intramuros

MANILA, Philippines -- Built in 1591, the Maestranza Wall or the Almacenes Curtain Wall served as a storehouse and soldiers’ quarters during the Spanish occupation. It was destroyed in 1941 during the war and is currently undergoing restoration work.

Funded by the Japanese government, the first phase of the project which is the archaeological excavation is finished, while the second phase or the reconstruction, is already 67 percent complete.

According to Tourism secretary Ace Durano in six months time or by first quarter of 2011, Maestranza will be open to the public, connecting the walled city of Intramuros. The curtain wall will house museums, café’s, art boutiques and souvenir shops.