⛪ Simala Shrine – Where Miracles and Faith Meet in Cebu
- SkyViewHome Condotel
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 20
✍️ By Mery – Real Estate Salesperson & Skyviewhome Superhost📍 Sibonga, Cebu |
Monastery of the Holy Eucharist🌟 Part of the “Cebu Hidden Gems Series” – Published at skyviewhomecondotel.com
Hello friends and guests!
I share a story not just about places — but about experiences that stay with you.
Let’s visit one of the most spiritual and awe-inspiring places in Cebu: Simala Shrine.
This is not your ordinary church.
People don’t just come here to pray — they come with hope, with tears, and sometimes… they leave with a miracle.
🕊️ A Castle of Faith on the Hill
The Simala Shrine, also known as the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, stands majestically on a hill in Sibonga, Cebu. Built in 1998 by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration, this church is often called the "Castle of the Virgin Mary" — and you’ll understand why the moment you see it.
Its architecture is like a fairy tale: towers, arches, and long bridges — all echoing a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine styles. It’s breathtaking, especially with the 25-foot crown on top, handcrafted by one of the early monks.
This is not just beauty. It’s symbolic.
Like a fortress of peace, the shrine welcomes those in pain, those in search of healing, and those who simply want to be closer to something greater.
🙏 The Miracle That Started It All
In 1998, during a dengue outbreak, a statue of the Virgin Mary inside the shrine was seen weeping real tears. Many believed it was a sign — a divine act of compassion.
Since then, people from all over the Philippines have come, praying for healing and protection. Some claim to have been cured of cancer, others walked again after years of disability.
These stories are recorded in the form of letters, crutches, and wheelchairs — all displayed inside the shrine as testimonies of faith.
It’s no wonder people call her “Our Lady of Miracles.”
🕯️ Candles of Color and Meaning
One beautiful tradition here is the colorful candles.
Each color stands for a different prayer:
💛 Gold – for health
💚 Green – for success and prosperity
❤️ Red – for love and harmony
🤍 White – for purity and guidance
🧡 Orange – for reconciliation
Before leaving, most visitors light a candle and whisper their prayers.
It's peaceful. Emotional. Sometimes, even life-changing.
📅 When to Visit
🕗 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily⛪ Mass Schedule:
Sunday: 12:00 NN & 3:30 PM
Weekdays: 12:00 NN
Saturday: 10:30 AM
Every 13th of the month: 10:30 AM & 3:30 PM – Special Mass for Mary
Tip: Dress modestly. No sleeveless or short clothing. If needed, cover-ups are available at the entrance.
🚐 How to Get There (From Cebu City)
Here are your options:
🚌 By Bus:
Depart from South Bus Terminal
Ride a bus to Sibonga/Oslob – ₱80–₱100
Get off near 7-Eleven, then take a habal-habal (₱20–₱30) to the shrine
🕑 Total time: ~2.5 hours
🚕 By Taxi or Grab:
₱2,000–₱3,500 one-way
🕑 Around 2 to 2.5 hours
🚗 By Car:
Use Waze or Google Maps – Search “Simala Shrine”
Enjoy the scenic drive through Cebu’s southern coastline
🌄 Nearby Places Worth Exploring
If you plan a full-day trip, consider visiting:
Carcar City – For heritage homes, crunchy chicharon, and tasty lechon
Oslob – For whale shark tours and Tumalog Falls
Argao & Boljoon – Historic churches and coastal beauty
💡 Mery’s Tips
Bring water, but no food allowed inside the shrine
Go early to avoid the crowd
Spend time reading the letters inside – some may move you to tears
Light a candle not just for wishes, but also for gratitude
✨ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re Catholic or not, the energy in Simala is undeniable. It's not just about religion — it’s about hope. It’s a place where people come to believe again.
If you ever visit Cebu, don’t miss this destination. And if you stay at Skyviewhome Condotel, I’d be happy to guide you with transport options or even help arrange a group trip. 💙
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