Landmarks : RIZAL MONUMENT, Manila
To commemorate the martyrdom of the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, a monument was built in his honor at Luneta Park where, the hero died by firing squad.
It is also where Rizal’s remains are interred.
In the pedestal of the monument is a plaque with the words “To the memory of José Rizal, patriot and martyr, executed at Bagumbayan Field December 30th, 1896, this monument is dedicated by the people of the Philippine Islands”, honoring Rizal in dedicating himself for the nations freedom from the tyranny.
The bronze and granite monument, one of the most recognizable landmark in the country, was constructed during the American regime from 1908 – 1913. On December 30, 1913, on the feast of Rizal’s martyrdom, the monument was inaugurated.
The United States Philippine Commission form a committee that held an international design competition to submit their works and designs to commemorate Rizal’s patriotism when the commission was granted to erect a monument for the hero in Luneta.’
From the hundreds of local and foreign designers who joined the competition, and besting 40 entries, it was Carlos Nicoli’s design that grabbed the first prize. Nicoli is from Carrara, Italy.
But, Richard Kissling from Switzerland, who was the second placer in the design competition, got the contract when Nicoli was unable to put up the construction bond of P20,000.
On Rizal’s 17th death anniversary, the shrine was unveiled. Inscribe on the memorial plaque is one of the hero’s known poem ‘Mi Ultimo Adios’ (My Last Farewell) which he wrote inside his cell in Fort Santiago.
Today, world leaders and foreign dignitaries official protocol includes visiting the monument to pay respect for our nation’s national hero.
Rizal Monument is guarded continuously by ceremonial soldiers known as ‘Kablyeros de Rizal’ (Knight of Rizal) 24/7.
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