Jump to: About Aguinaldo Shrine | Historical Significance | Inside the Museum | How to Get There | Travel Tips | Nearby Attractions
About the Aguinaldo Shrine
The Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum is a historic landmark located in Kawit, Cavite. It was the ancestral home of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines, and the site where the Philippine Declaration of Independence was proclaimed on June 12, 1898.
Historical Significance
The shrine played a vital role in Philippine history. From the iconic balcony, Aguinaldo waved the Philippine flag and declared independence from Spanish colonial rule. The house itself reflects both Filipino and colonial architecture, filled with hidden passages, antique furnishings, and revolutionary memorabilia.
Inside the Aguinaldo Museum
- Rooms preserved with original furniture
- Artifacts from the Philippine Revolution
- Displays about Aguinaldo’s personal and political life
- The symbolic tomb where Aguinaldo is buried beneath the house
This sword was made in Toledo, Spain (1869) and was formerly owned by Spanish General Ernesto Aguirre. The sword fell when the Spaniards retreated from the fight against the forces of Gen. Aguinaldo in Imus, Cavite, in September 1896. Aguinaldo has the sword carved with the symbols of the Revolution, and made it his personal weapon.
At first, this concrete shelter was a short well that had an underground tunnel leading to the church. Soon, the well was cemented and turned into a mere shelter because strangers would go to the well and enter Aguinaldo's house.
Let's talk in Tagalog na nga, matapos malibot at mabasa ang mga nakasaad bawat larawan sa ibaba, nagtungo naman ako sa ikalawang palapag na kung saan matatagpuan ang mga kuwarto ng mga anak ni Hen. Emilio Aguinaldo. Dito, agad kong nabanaag ang pagkaluma ng mansyon. Habang naglalakad sa may pasilyo, hindi ko maiwasan ang makaramdam ng takot dahil langit-ngit ng mga kahoy ang aking naririnig na nagpapatunay ng kalumaan nito, tunong na parang masisira.
Sa kabuuan, ang ikalawang palagapag ay binubuo ng mga personal na kagamitan ng mga Aguinaldo, mula sa kanilang mga muwebles, upuan, aparador, hapag-kainan, salamin at iba pang mga kagamitang gawa sa kahoy. Ang kuwarto ng Heneral ang isa sa nakaagaw ng aking atensyon dahil sa mga lumang baro't saya na naka display. Sana ang mansyong ito ay ma-preserba pa ng mas maayos at malagyan ng mas malamig na temperatura dahil ang ikalawang palapag ay may kainitan na pwedeng makasira ng mga lumang gamit.
How to Get There
The shrine is located in Kawit, Cavite, about 30–45 minutes from Manila (depending on traffic). You can get there via private vehicle, provincial buses to Cavite, or through ride-hailing apps. Parking is available near the entrance. In my case, I rode a bus with Naic and Ternate Signboard and alighted at "Siyus," that's how the conductor pronounced it. Bus Fare: 25 Pesos. Then at Siyus, I rode in a mini-bus passing by the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum. Bus Fare: 10 Pesos.
To go back to Manila: By the entrance of the museum, I waited and rode a bus with the Lawton Signboard. Alighted in Baclaran. Bus Fare: 26 Pesos.
Travel Tips
- Admission is free, but donations are welcome
- Open from Tuesday to Sunday (usually 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes for walking
- Best visited in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Nearby Attractions
Final Thoughts
The Aguinaldo Shrine is not just a historical home — it’s a symbol of Philippine freedom and resilience. A visit here brings history to life and offers a meaningful experience for travelers, students, and patriots alike.
