Manila's Chinatown in Binondo, touted as the oldest in the world, had its predecessor in the Parian of the 16th century. IMAGE Philippine Free Press, December 11, 1962 Today, Binondo Church is known as Minor Basilica of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish. San Lorenzo Ruiz underwent religious training in this church before going to his missionary work in Japan, where he suffered martyrdom. Rebuilt in the 1950s, it was again renovated in 1971.

World War II, however, dealt it with the most severe blow, damaged by fire caused by bombings in September 1944. An earthquake leveled the bell tower and damaged the church in 1863. Completed in 1749, it was dedicated to the Virgin of the Most Holy Rosary.ĭuring the sack of Manila by the British in 1762, the church was heavily damaged but restored to full splendor with a six-tiered tower of masonry. In January 1740, a new project to rebuild the church was begun, with materials from different parts of the country-wooden posts and boards from Bolinao, wood pieces from Orion, stone from San Juan and Meycauayan-put together by indios and Sangley laborers. It was rebuilt in stone in 1606, and after escaping a planned demolition in 1608, the church flourished to become a majestic work of art by 1640. Two years later, it was accepted in the Dominican Chapter.

The first church of Binondo was built circa 1594 for the Christian Chinese, under the titular patronage of San Gabriel. Lorenzo Ruiz and Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish)

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