In the town of Santa Maria in Luzon province of Ilocos sur is a spectacular Church of Santa Maria, attracting tens of thousands of believers and tourists. This is not only a reminder about the four centuries of domination of the Spaniards in these lands, but also a unique structure, famous for its architecture and design. Compared with other churches in the region of Santa Maria are smaller in size but more elaborate. It was built on top of a hill, and served as a vantage point, later becoming a truly religious center.

After the complete conquest of the province of Ilocos region by the Spanish in the 17th century, the population of Santa Maria increased significantly. Everywhere were founded parishes evangelists that made the town a religious and trading center. According to the legend, before the Church of Santa Maria was built at its present location, the virgin Mary was worshipped in the town of Bulla. The Holy image was gone from his throne, and later found it on the same place – on the guava tree that grew where now stands the chapel of Santa Maria. In this story believed by many people, and legend has contributed to the construction of the Church. In 1810 it was attached the bell tower, which attracts attention not only with its unusual location, but also their proportions and hexagonal shape.

Right in front of the Church stands the monastery, which partially covers the facade of the temple. It is possible to go directly from the Church by the bridge built over once by a deep ditch. To the door of the Church a large staircase leads from the three spans, the other two are located behind the building – one leading to the cemetery, with other offers panoramic views over the plain and the city of Santa Maria.