Picture this. You stand before Tañong Chapel a simple structure in Marikina City. Its unassuming exterior belies a rich history. This isn’t just any chapel. It’s a significant landmark. Tañong Chapel marks the beginning of recorded history in Marikina.
This humble chapel witnessed the first Catholic Mass in Marikina. The year was 1630. Jesuit missionaries held this Mass. They’d discovered a small image of Jesus. This was in a former storage house. The area was once a vast mountainous region. The Marikina River flowed through it. The Jesuits were zealous in converting the local population.
They established their order on the west bank. The bank was rocky. The name Jesus de la Peña means Jesus of the Rock. This reflects the location’s unique features. The chapel’s construction brought Christianity to Marikina. Prior to this the area was inhabited by river dwellers. Their livelihood depended on the Marikina River.
The Augustinians eventually took control of the area. This included Tañong Chapel. Governor Gabriel Cruz Elasque later ordered its transfer to Sta Elena. The original site was prone to flooding.
Tañong Chapel stands as a testament to resilience. It’s undergone renovations. The most recent was between March 7 and June 19 1988. The chapel’s design shows its Neo-Romanesque style. This is evident in the arched openings and light facade. Monolithic columns were used initially. This was a common feature in Roman and early Christian architecture. The bell tower stands on the left. Its simple design is pragmatic. The design is suitable for a site near a river prone to flooding.
A historical marker explains the chapel’s significance. It details the first Mass on April 16 1630. Father Pedro de Arce the Bishop of Manila was present. Jesuit missionaries led the ceremony. The marker also mentions the discovery of an image of Christ. This was on a plateau. The town of Jesus de la Peña was named for it.
Tañong Chapel is more than a building. It’s a living history. It stands as a symbol of faith and perseverance. It shows the area’s religious and cultural evolution. It stands as a reminder of Marikina’s rich past. Take a moment to appreciate its simple beauty and profound significance. It is a place of great historical value.