Maasin City is one of the oldest communities in Southern Leyte, although it used to be called Nipa. It supposedly got its current name back during the Spanish occupation of the Philippines, as when Spaniards went by the Canturing River, they asked the natives in Spanish what it was called. Not understanding the question, they responded “Maasin" (salty), thinking that they were being asked how the water tasted. The name stuck, and it became known as Maasin from then on. As a people, the residents of Maasin City are known for their devout faith, which is why this place is one of the known pilgrimage places in the Eastern Visayas. Beyond the religious sites, the city also holds several gems for those who are looking for adventure.
Spend some time in contemplation at the Maasin Cathedral
Maasin Cathedral
Source: Wikipedia
The Cathedral of Nuestra Señora De Asunsion, otherwise known as Maasin Cathedral, was built in the 17th-century, making it the oldest as well as the biggest church in the city. Various religious orders have served in the church, including the Jesuits, the Augustinians, and the Franciscans. The church was destroyed thrice in its history. The present church was completed in 1968, the same year that it was declared the seat of the Diocese of Maasin. As such, don’t be surprised to find a more modern interior in the cathedral, versus its antique façade. However, some of the statues of saints still harken back to the Spanish era. Note that the church is only open if there is mass. However, there is mass every day at 11 am, so visitors who want to visit can schedule their trip to arrive at or near that time. As a side note, history buffs may also want to explore St. Joseph College, right beside Maasin Cathedral, which was constructed in 1928. The city itself has several colonial-era houses dotting the streets.
Maasin Cathedral
Address: National Road, Maasin City, Southern Leyte See our full list of recommended hotels in Maasin City and also compare the prices with airbnbs in Maasin City
Visit Jaleca Hills
Jalica Hills Shrine, Maasin City So.Leyte Philippines.. Among dakong pasalamat sa Mahal nga Patrona sa makanunayong tabang ug gugma..to GOD be the glory ,..AMEN "THANK YOU MAMA MARY"WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH..📷
Posted by Venerando Lacerna on Tuesday, 26 November 2013
Another pilgrimage site in Maasin City is Jalleca Hills, where a Shrine to Our Lady of Assumption, the tallest shrine in the country, can be found. Visitors will need to climb a little over 300 steps in order to reach the religious landmark.
Jaleca Hills
Address: Barangay Mantahan, Maasin City, Southern Leyte See our full list of recommended hotels in Maasin City and also compare the prices with airbnbs in Maasin City
San Francisco Javier Pilgrims Center
Posted by John Beil Serdeña on Thursday, 19 June 2014
San Francisco Javier/St. Francis Xavier Pilgrims Center is said to be a miraculous church, with all the visitors’ prayers answered and petitions granted. There are even anecdotes about those who recovered from a dreaded disease after visiting the shrine. One has to trek for at least two hours to get to the shrine. As with Monte Cueva Shrine, the elderly and those who have health problems may need to evaluate if they can make the climb, because the terrain is quite rough. As a side note, the Hanginan trail is said to be highest point of Maasin City. It is known for serving as the watchpoint of soldiers during the Spanish era.
San Francisco Javier Pilgrims Center
Address: Barangay Hanginan, Maasin City, Southern Leyte Access: The trail starts at Barangay Isagani See our full list of recommended hotels in Maasin City and also compare the prices with airbnbs in Maasin City