Antipolo History: A Journey Through Time in the Philippines
The city of Antipolo, located in the province of Rizal, is one of the oldest cities in the Philippines. It has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial era when it was part of the Kingdom of Namayan. The city has had many rulers throughout its history, including the Spanish, the Americans, and the Japanese. It has also been the site of some of the most important events in Philippine history, such as the Philippine Revolution of 1896 and the Battle of Antipolo in 1945.
Antipolo was first settled by the Tagalogs in the 12th century. During this period, the city was part of the Kingdom of Namayan, which was ruled by the Lakan Dula. It was during this time that the city was known as “Hinulugang Taktak”, which translates to “The Place of the Falling Water”. The city was a trading center and was known for its abundance of natural resources, such as rice, fish, and other agricultural products.
In 1571, the Spanish colonized the Philippines and established the city of Antipolo. The city was made into a parish in 1578, and the church of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage was built in 1626. The city was also home to the first printing press in the Philippines, which was established in 1620.
The Spanish rule of Antipolo ended in 1898 when the city was liberated by Filipino revolutionaries during the Philippine Revolution of 1896. After the revolution, the Americans took control of the city and established a military base in the area. During the American occupation, the city’s population grew significantly as more people moved to the area to take advantage of the new opportunities.
During World War II, Antipolo was the site of a major battle between the Japanese and the American forces. The Battle of Antipolo was a fierce battle that lasted for three days and resulted in the death of thousands of soldiers. After the battle, the city was occupied by the Japanese until the end of the war.
Today, Antipolo is a bustling city with a population of over 500,000 people. It is home to some of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines, such as the San Roque Cathedral and the Church of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. The city is also known for its delicious cuisines, such as the famous “Antipolo” dish, which consists of grilled pork with a sweet and sour sauce.
Antipolo is a city with a rich and vibrant history. It has been a witness to some of the most important events in Philippine history, and it is a place that will always be remembered for its unique culture and traditions.