The Famous Rizal Park
Rizal Park is one of the most popular tourist spots in Manila. The park is most commonly referred to by its old name, Luneta. Rizal was executed by the Spaniards via firing squad on December 30, 1896 at Bagumbayan. The heart of Rizal Park is a bronze statue and monument of the national hero. It stands just a few meters away from where Rizal was executed. It is visited with many foreigners as well. His academic excellence as a young man brought him to several countries in Europe where he learned about democracy and independence. He then dedicated all his writings to his country and countrymen, which as a result fueled a number of nationalistic movements that eventually led to the toppling of the Spanish tyranny.
The most common places that children and families go to are modern malls that are normally overcrowded with shoppers, moviegoers and bystanders. Ten hectares of the 22-hectare Rizal Park is an open field where children can run around, play or simply stroll with their families. It is perfect for friends and lovers to while away time talking and relaxing. In one corner of the park is a children’s playground that is highlighted by huge, colorful dinosaur statues. Also inside the park are gardens, plazas, historical markers, an observatory, an open-air concert hall, an art gallery, a light-and-sound theatre, fountains, restaurants, food kiosks, and a giant relief map of the Philippines that may be viewed from an elevated platform. |