The Pavilion

I always see this structure on my way home when I pass by C5 Road in Taguig and it has always intrigued me as to what it is. This morning, I got my chance at exploring it.

I was suprised to find out that this was a columbarium, a public place where cremated remains are housed in individual compartments or niches.

Actually, columbariums are now being constructed one after another in the Metro. Apparently, the Catholic Church has already approved of this relatively new practice of cremation. Though for most catholics, I would guess that traditional burial methods are still preferred.

This columbarium is located at the Heritage Park in Fort Bonifacio. Miko was just as excited as I was to check out the place.

This is the focal point of the place, the Main Pavilion, a two-storey structure which houses niches of up to 18 layers.

There are two sets of stairs symmetrically located on each side of the pavilion.

Entering the Main Pavilion, I would guess that this is an adoration area of sorts. All the walls of the the corridors and passageways are lined with niches, some indoors, others outdoors.

There is so much Chinese/Japanese influence in the design and layout of the columbarium as evidenced by this large censer (incense burner) in the center..

There are three gates to the place, each ornately designed as this one.

These little lanterns hang attractively from the ceiling of each of these entrances.

A well maintained and well tended landscaped area makes the whole place even more picturesue.

There is even parking space provided for. Though I would be doubtful if these spaces are ample enough during All Soul's Day.

The places exudes such air of serenity and tranquility fit for a place where we inter the remains of our dearly beloved. Wether columbariums will continue to proliferate in a catholic country like ours and eventually change our tradition, remains to be seen.