Cebu is not just about being the “Queen City of the South.” Cebu is a complex maze of history and culture, and to fully understand the place. You’ll need to explore the various nooks and crannies of the city. One of the most overlooked sites in Cebu is the Temple of Leah, which is sometimes referred to as the “Taj Mahal of Cebu.” Read on to find out why it is a must-see for anyone visiting Cebu.
Courtesy of: Dominic Villaveza
Why The Temple of Leah Is The Taj Mahal of Cebu?
The temple in question is the Temple of Leah, also known as the Taj Mahal of Cebu, in the heart of the Cebu City. It’s known as the Taj Mahal of Cebu because it’s like a mausoleum in India built as a symbol of undying love. The temple is reportedly made up of 24 chambers, including art galleries, museums, libraries, and bars. Just imagine the life-sized statues of Roman gladiators and angels that are all over it! Visitors can explore the temple’s grandeur and marvel at its beauty from 6 AM to 11 PM.
See also: Why You Should Visit The Ruins Of Alcatraz
The History
According to my research, the temple has been around since 2012 and became popular. Interestingly, the Temple of Leah is a shrine holding the treasures and memories of Teodorico Soriano Adarna’s late wife, Leah Albino-Adarna. The two are grandparents of Ellen Adarna, a Filipina actress. There’s no better way to commemorate the character of Leah than with this 10-foot statue.
The brass plaque below reads:
“Beloved Wife and Mother: Leah V. Albino-Adarna was chosen Matron Queen of her Alma Mater the University of Southern Philippines. This bronze statue portrays her composure and regal bearing when she was crowned. May the beholder discern her innate beauty, poise and gentleness.”
The Temple of Leah Today
Construction is still ongoing on the place, but it’s already open to the public, and you can enter for only P50.
Update as of 10-Mar-2020: Temple is temporarily closed due to legal issues. Source: https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/293211/temple-of-leah-closed-due-to-family-dispute-faces-revocation-of-business-permit
How to Get To The Temple of Leah
The Temple is found in the highland Barangay of Busay. There’s no better way to reach the Temple of Leah than by habal-habal. You can charter one at Lahug or JY Mall for P150, and it’s good for two people. The best time to go is at the opening!
Conclusion
There are a lot of different aspects of the Temple of Leah that any visitor can appreciate. For one, it’s a reminder of Cebu’s long and rich history as a cosmopolitan, multicultural, and influential city. Second, it’s a big touristic attraction in a place where you may not expect such an attraction. And third, it’s an elaborate piece of art that depicts a Roman-style temple, and it’s breathtaking to see the overlooking of Cebu City.
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