DISCOVER HIDDEN TREASURES FROM DAYS GONE BY: CALVO BUILDING IN ESCOLTA

With its neoclassical buildings and iconic landmarks, Escolta exudes history and Philippine heritage. Like most places in Old Manila, the best way to explore the “Queen of Streets” is by foot...or by a horse-drawn carriage locally known as “kalesa.”

Along the stretch of Escolta stands one of the few buildings that have managed to survive the onslaught of World War II. Built in 1938, The Calvo Building was designed by one of the most renowned architects in the country, Fernando Hizon Ocampo on the land owned by real estate businesswoman Doña Emiliana Mortera vda Calvo. Fernando used a Beaux-Arts architecture in his design, a classic decorative style that heavily influenced the architecture of the United States and Europe.



Aside from its stunning façade, Calvo Building houses the Calvo Museum, a quaint museum that holds interesting remnants from Calvo’s history and that of Escolta. Fascinating memorabilia collection from vintage bottles, old photographs and movie posters can be viewed. To people interested in cultural heritage, this museum is a passage back in time.

UPDATE AS OF NOVEMBER 2020:

• Exact Location: 266 Escolta corner Soda Streets, Binondo, Manila.
• Operating Hours: Calvo Museum inside Calvo Building is temporarily closed.

Disclaimer: All photos were taken before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stay Sassy!